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Epigenetics refers to modifications on gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself. It explores how outside factors like environment and behavior can change the way genes work, often by turning them on or off and without altering the actual genetic code. Epigenetic changes can be influenced by several factors including age, environment, lifestyle, disease state, and they may even be inherited. Epigenetics is a crucial component of genetic research as it bridges the gap between genotype and phenotype, providing valuable insights into how genes are expressed and regulated under different conditions. As such, it falls under the broader categories of science, genetics, and mutation, contributing to our understanding of gene behavior beyond mere sequence variations.