Utilizing speech recordings from nearly 13,000 Icelanders and corresponding genomic data, the scientists identified common ABCC9 variants associated with higher voice pitch in both men and women. Additionally, these variants were linked to higher pulse pressure, revealing intriguing connections between voice pitch and health.
The study also uncovered a heritable component in vowel acoustics, enhancing our understanding of the human vocal system.
Key Facts:
- This is the first comprehensive study exploring the genetic underpinnings of voice pitch, utilizing a large dataset of 13,000 Icelandic individuals.
- The research not only identified genetic variants influencing voice pitch but also highlighted an unexpected link to cardiovascular health, with the same variants associated with higher pulse pressure.
- While the influence of culture and context on vowel sounds is recognized, this study found a heritable component tied to vowel acoustics, likely associated with the shape of the vocal tract.
Source: deCODE Genetics
