The new study is "a good first step to start looking at the specific genes" that might affect speech and language development, said Liza Finestack at the University of Minnesota, who was not involved with the research.
What scientists learn may someday even help people with speech problems.
The genetic variant researchers were looking at was one of a variety of genes "that contributed to the emergence of Homo sapiens as the dominant species, which we are today" said Dr. Robert Darnell, an author of the study published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications.