One of the fastest growing areas of science, epigenetics is providing hope that DNA isn't always destiny. The epigenome, a layer of biochemical reactions that turns genes on and off, has been found to play a big part in health and heredity. It's part of the reason why "identical" twins can be so different, and some cancers have been linked to epigenetic changes.

According to an article from Wired News, the epigenome is passed from generation to generation, but can change according to an individual's environment. Scientists are hoping that by studying it, they can better learn how to address the environmental aspects of health. To do this, they are working to develop maps that show how epigenetic patterns relate to disease. Collaboration on epigentic mapping has begun by several groups and consortiums, such as the Human Epigenome Project, and the Epigenome Network of Excellence.