FOXP2


FOXP2

A gene on chromosome 7q31 that encodes a member of the forkhead/winged-helix family of transcription factors, which is expressed in foetal and adult brain, lung and gut. It is evolutionarily conserved, and binds hundreds of different gene promoters to regulate the expression of their cognate genes. FOXP2 is required for proper development of speech and language areas of the brain during embryogenesis, and is involved in pathways that influence language development.
Molecular pathology
FOXP2 mutations cause speech-language disorder type 1 (autosomal dominant speech and language disorder with orofacial dyspraxia).