Cutting-edge studies shed light on genetic and epigenetic contributions to disease. Researchers linked genetic ancestry to differential immune responses in dengue severity, demonstrating higher inflammatory activity correlates with European ancestry. Epigenetic memory disruptions in embryos provide new insights into polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) inheritance. Meanwhile, whole-genome sequencing combined with functional assays improved diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss, exemplifying advances toward precision medicine.