News Humans A gene critical for speech Newly discovered stretch of DNA may have been important in evolution of language By Tina Hesman Saey October 23, 2009 at 7:23 am - More than 2 years ago Share this:Share Share via email (Opens in new window) Email Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X Click to print (Opens in new window) Print HONOLULU — Humans may owe the gift of gab to a newly discovered gene that helps keeps vocal pipes limber. Researchers discovered the gene, dubbed tospeak, in an Australian family with a speaking disorder.