Influence of Mouse Motor Cortex on Vocal Musculature

Author

César D. M. Vargas

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Abstract

Learned vocal communication and spoken language are complex behaviors we have long sought to understand. Studying the neurobiology of speech and language will be advanced by investigating its component traits in model organisms. Most vertebrates share common brain stem circuits for vocalization, and they produce innate vocal repertoires over which the animals have little to no control. Vocal learners can imitate heard sounds, and thus have a high degree of control over their vocalizations. Vocal learning species have a direct projection from the pallial forebrain to the brainstem vocal motor neurons, which facilitate their vocal dexterity.

Comments

A Thesis Presented to the Faculty of The Rockefeller University in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy

Recommended Citation

Vargas, César D. M., "Influence of Mouse Motor Cortex on Vocal Musculature" (2024). Student Theses and Dissertations. 779.
https://digitalcommons.rockefeller.edu/student_theses_and_dissertations/779