The implications of a topic can encompass various aspects, but they primarily relate to how the future will be affected by the topic. This includes potential outcomes, changes, or consequences that could arise as a result of the topic's significance or developments. Additionally, implications can also involve the cultural significance of the topic and inferences or conclusions that readers might draw from it, but the primary focus is on future effects. Therefore, the most fitting answer from your list is:
• how the future will be affected by the topic.