Transcriptomic Signatures of Projection Class Neurons for Vocal Control

Author

Stephanie Joy Marcus

Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

RU Laboratory

Jarvis Laboratory

Abstract

Vocal learning is the ability to modify acoustic structure and syntax of vocalizations. This rare trait is thought to have independently evolved three times in birds and five times in mammals.Vocal learning species exhibit an underlying convergence in brain circuitry, including a direct, forebrain-to-brainstem projection critical for the motor production of learned vocalizations.The remarkable convergence in fore brain vocal circuitry is associated with convergent molecular specializations.In characterizing specializations for vocal motor control across species, we can expand our knowledge of vocal learning and the evolution of this trait.

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

Marcus, Stephanie Joy, "Transcriptomic Signatures of Projection Class Neurons for Vocal Control" (2023). Student Theses and Dissertations. 767.
https://digitalcommons.rockefeller.edu/student_theses_and_dissertations/767