Genetic components of vocal learning.

摘要: Vocal learning is a rare trait. Humans depend on vocal to acquire spoken language, but most species that communicate acoustically have an innate repertoire of sounds they use for information exchange. Among the few non-human also rely learning, songbirds provided by far understanding this process. This article concentrates genetic components in humans and birds. We summarize existing evidence predisposition towards acquiring species-specific human avian repertoires. describe approaches used finding genes involved shaping neural circuitry required or mediating process itself. Special attention given particular gene, FOXP2, which has been implicated speech language disorder. studied FoxP2 learners non-learners review links both molecule its close homologue FoxP1 development brain regions their function. characteristic expression pattern structure uniquely associated with learned communication, Area X songbirds, analogue parrots hummingbirds. In song predominates sensory sensory-motor circuits. These latter express mammals reptiles. conclude important building function pathways including, not limited to, those essential communication.