NOVA1 Gene Variant Linked to Human Speech Origins: Study Reveals Unique Protein's Role

A new study links the NOVA1 gene to the ancient origins of spoken language. The research, published in Nature Communications*, proposes that a protein variant found only in humans may have facilitated novel communication methods. Speech enabled early humans to share information, coordinate activities, and transmit knowledge, providing an advantage over Neanderthals and Denisovans. Dr. Robert Darnell, an author of the study from Rockefeller University, has studied the NOVA1 protein since the early 1990s. Scientists used CRISPR gene editing to replace the NOVA1 protein in mice with the human variant. This resulted in altered vocalizations among the animals. Baby mice with the human variant squeaked differently, and adult male mice chirped differently when exposed to females. While FOXP2 [F-O-X-P-two] was previously identified as a language-related gene, the NOVA1 variant is exclusively found in *Homo sapiens*, according to Darnell. Liza Finestack at the University of Minnesota, who was not involved in the research, called the study "a good first step to start looking at the specific genes" affecting speech and language development. The research may eventually contribute to understanding and treating speech-related problems. Finestack suggests that the genetic findings might allow for early detection of individuals who may require speech and language interventions.

* Tajima, Y., Vargas, C.D.M., Ito, K. et al. A humanized NOVA1 splicing factor alters mouse vocal communications. Nat Commun 16, 1542 (2025)