Researchers link a gene to the emergence of spoken language

Why did humans start speaking? A new study links a particular gene to the ancient origins of spoken language, proposing that a protein variant found only in humans may have helped us communicate in a novel way. AP AUDIO: Researchers link a gene to the emergence of spoken language Scientists say they’ve linked one particular gene to the ability to speak in humans. For the latest research, scientists in his lab at New York’s Rockefeller University used CRISPR gene editing to replace the NOVA1 protein found in mice with the exclusively human type to test the real-life effects of the genetic variant. University of Minnesota’s Finestack said it’s more likely the genetic findings might someday allow scientists to detect, very early in life, who might need speech and language interventions.