However, differences in the methylation status of the SPARC promoter between a tumour specimen (95% methylation) and its surrounding normal colonic epithelium (50% methylation) were noted within the same individual, which would argue against the possibility of an age-related phenomenon, and instead, indicates that SPARC promoter hypermethylation in tumours to be most likely related to a diseased state. The gene discussed is SPARC; the disease is neoplasm.