How do epigenetic mechanisms regulate gene expression and inheritable traits, and what role do they play in development, disease susceptibility, and evolutionary adaptation?

Epigenetic mechanisms involve chemical modifications to DNA and histone proteins that influence gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence. They play critical roles in development, cellular differentiation, and responses to environmental cues. Dysregulation of epigenetic processes has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and metabolic syndromes.