Alpha-amylase 1 (AMY1) (AMY1)

Alpha-amylase 1 (AMY1), commonly known as salivary alpha-amylase, is a major digestive enzyme produced by the salivary glands that initiates the breakdown of complex carbohydrates (UniProt: P04745). It specifically catalyzes the hydrolysis of alpha-1,4-glucosidic linkages in starch and glycogen, yielding maltose and other oligosaccharides (StatPearls: NBK557738). Beyond its role in digestion, AMY1 is a recognized biomarker for sympathetic nervous system activity, as its secretion increases rapidly in response to psychological and physical stress (PubMed: 19815046). Genetic studies have identified significant copy number variations in the AMY1 gene, with lower copy numbers being strongly associated with an increased risk of obesity and insulin resistance (PubMed: 24686848). In the pharmaceutical industry, AMY1 is a target for inhibitors like acarbose, which are used to manage postprandial glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (PubMed: 21861724). However, the inhibition of this enzyme can lead to gastrointestinal side effects, such as flatulence and diarrhea, due to the fermentation of undigested starch by colonic bacteria (StatPearls: NBK557738). AMY1 also plays a role in oral health by interacting with bacteria to form dental plaque, making it a factor in the development of dental caries (PubMed: 11153802).

Other names

Salivary alpha-amylase1,4-alpha-D-glucan glucanohydrolase 1AMY1AAMY1BAMY1C

Competitive inhibition of alpha-amylase activity to slow the digestion of dietary starch and reduce the rate of glucose absorption into the bloodstream.