Genetic structure remains largely stable throughout a person's life, with the genome remaining unchanged from fertilization to death. However, the epigenome, which consists of chemical modifications like methyl groups that regulate gene expression, does undergo changes over time. These alterations can influence how genes are activated or silenced. Additionally, cells can experience genetic changes due to epigenetic programming or damage, which can lead to serious conditions such as cancer. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between stable genetic material and the dynamic nature of the epigenome.
