Final answer:
Epigenetic changes can alter gene expression by affecting the structure of chromatin. DNase studies provide information about chromatin packing by identifying DNA regions that are more accessible for gene expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Epigenetic changes can affect gene expression by altering the structure of chromatin, which is the combination of DNA and histone proteins. These changes can be passed down through multiple generations, making them heritable. DNase studies help us understand chromatin packing by revealing the regions of DNA that are more accessible for gene expression.