We’ve been describing some exciting science in general terms suitable for lay readers. But some readers will have a deeper interest in the underlying genetics. For them, here’s some in-depth information about mutations and epigenetic alterations, because the latter are so crucial in pointing the way toward future breakthroughs. In particular, we want to address the common concern over whether “bad genes” destine a person to acquire specific diseases. The answer isn’t nearly so simple. But the best clues connecting complex diseases to your genes are based on the science we’ve been covering. The thread connecting epigenetics and inflammation appears to lead in many directions. It could be the most exciting medical development in decades. Like your genes, inflammation is double edged. Medical science is now unraveling how mechanisms that benefit the body in so many crucial ways somehow can turn on the body and create enormous problems.
These appendixes are devoted to exploring such mysteries.