Researchers from MIT and several European universities have conducted studies on a type of gene, Foxp2, that may help humans with a key component of learning language. The researchers also believe that Foxp2 is one of several genes that has contributed to the abilities to generate and comprehend language, which only humans possess. The humanized gene was tested out on mice and demonstrated to provide improvements in their behavior as well as memory. The protein produced by the gene produces changes taking place in the brain, allowing it to adapt to speech and language acquisition. More research is necessary and is  being conducted in order to see how Foxp2 interacts with other genes to produce its effects of learning and language.

Original article: http://newsoffice.mit.edu/2014/language-gene-0915