Mapping the distribution of language related genes FoxP1, FoxP2, and CntnaP2 in the brains of vocal learning bat species

The Journal of Comparative Neurology
Pedro M Rodenas-CuadradoSonja C Vernes

Abstract

Genes including FOXP2, FOXP1, and CNTNAP2, have been implicated in human speech and language phenotypes, pointing to a role in the development of normal language-related circuitry in the brain. Although speech and language are unique to humans a comparative approach is possible by addressing language-relevant traits in animal systems. One such trait, vocal learning, represents an essential component of human spoken language, and is shared by cetaceans, pinnipeds, elephants, some birds and bats. Given their vocal learning abilities, gregarious nature, and reliance on vocalizations for social communication and navigation, bats represent an intriguing mammalian system in which to explore language-relevant genes. We used immunohistochemistry to detail the distribution of FoxP2, FoxP1, and Cntnap2 proteins, accompanied by detailed cytoarchitectural histology in the brains of two vocal learning bat species; Phyllostomus discolor and Rousettus aegyptiacus. We show widespread expression of these genes, similar to what has been previously observed in other species, including humans. A striking difference was observed in the adult P. discolor bat, which showed low levels of FoxP2 expression in the cortex that contrasted with patterns fou...Continue Reading

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Citations

Jan 31, 2020·Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews. Developmental Biology·Marissa CoGenevieve Konopka
Nov 19, 2019·Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences·Sonja C Vernes, Gerald S Wilkinson
Sep 24, 2019·International Journal of Molecular Medicine·Xin LiuDongfeng Chen
Feb 28, 2019·Cortex; a Journal Devoted to the Study of the Nervous System and Behavior·C SchreiweisM Groszer
Jul 15, 2021·EMBO Reports·Joery den HoedSimon E Fisher

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