A new genetic discovery has shed light on the origins of human language, with researchers identifying a single gene variant that may have played a critical role in its development. The gene, called NOVA1, is found only in humans and has a unique amino acid sequence compared to other mammals.
According to studies, the NOVA1 variant was present in ancient human populations in Africa but not in Neanderthals or Denisovans, suggesting it emerged after our species split from these extinct relatives around 200,000-300,000 years ago. Researchers believe that this gene may have influenced the development of complex human language.
The team, led by Robert Darnell and Wolfgang Enard, artificially generated the human variant of NOVA1 in mice and found significant differences in their vocalizations. Genetically modified pups made higher-frequency ultrasonic squeaks, while adult male mice with the human NOVA1 variant produced more complex syllables during courtship.
The researchers suspect that the human variant is causing molecular shifts in the rodent brain, particularly in regions related to vocal behavior. The study’s findings suggest that NOVA1 may be a “bona fide” human language gene, playing a key role in the evolution of spoken language.
The discovery has significant implications for our understanding of language development and its relationship with genetics. While much remains hypothetical, the possibilities are profound, and further research is needed to fully uncover the secrets of NOVA1.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-put-a-human-language-gene-into-mice-and-changed-their-voice