Researchers have pinpointed a single genetic mutation that enables some mice to produce more complex chirps and squeaks, according to a study published yesterday. The results suggest a single protein variant may be largely responsible for the emergence of complex language.
Interest arose in the gene, known as NOVA1, more than a decade ago when it was found to be just one of about two dozen that appeared identical in most mammals—except humans. Mice without any copy of the gene at all die shortly after birth; in the current study, mice engineered with the mutated version produced more complex sounds beginning at birth. The change was reportedly most notable in mating vocalizations between males and females.
Previous studies reveal ancient human relatives like Neanderthals possessed the original gene, while at least 99.99% of modern humans carry the variant. Researchers say the mutation likely had significant evolutionary benefits and appeared after Homo sapiens split from other species around 300,000 years ago.
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