Final answer:
Hypermethylation and hypomethylation are associated with cancers. Hypermethylation silences tumor suppressor genes, while hypomethylation activates oncogenes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypermethylation and hypomethylation are associated with the development and progression of cancers. Methylation is a process that involves the addition or removal of methyl groups to DNA. Hypermethylation refers to an increase in methylation, resulting in the silencing of certain genes. This can lead to the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, which normally help regulate cell growth and prevent cancer formation. On the other hand, hypomethylation refers to a decrease in methylation, which can lead to the activation of oncogenes, genes that promote cell division and cancer development.