Gene Expression (IMAGE) Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz Caption Epigenetic processes are essential during development and are misregulated in disease. Epigenetic regulation plays a critical role in specifying what type a cell will turn into during development, such as generating neurons, and then in maintaining its identity throughout life. If epigenetic pathways go wrong, this can affect cell identity and lead to diseases, such as cancer. Credit (ill./©: Vijay Tiwari) Usage Restrictions This image may only be used in connection with the press release 'Vijay Tiwari receives Wilhelm Sander-Stiftung Award 2015', issued by Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz on June 12, 2015. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.