Among the other pieces of this puzzle, the FOXP2 gene, often referred to as the "language gene," holds a prominent place. Identified over twenty years ago, FOXP2 is essential for the development of ...

Researchers found that a unique human variant of the NOVA1 gene, which is absent in Neanderthals and Denisovans, alters vocalization patterns in mice. This suggests that the mutation may have played a ...

Called FOXP2, it was referred to as the human language gene. But though FOXP2 is involved in human language, it turned out that the variant in modern humans wasn't unique to us. Later research ...

A new contender for a human 'language gene' can change the way that mice squeak when it is incorporated into their DNA.

In 2001, British scientists said they discovered the first gene tied to a language and speech disorder. Called FOXP2, it was referred to as the human language gene. But though FOXP2 is involved in ...

Why did humans start speaking? Scientists suggest genetics played a big role – and they say the evolution of this singular ability was key to our survival.