The properties of Amylase
Amylase is an enzyme that catalyses the hydrolysis of starch (Latin amylum) into sugars. Amylase is present in the saliva of humans and some other mammals, where it begins the chemical process of digestion.
Amylase has medical applications in the use of Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT). It is one of the components in Sollpura (Liprotamase) to help in the breakdown of saccharides into simple sugars.
An inhibitor of alpha-amylase, called phaseolamin, has been tested as a potential diet aid.
When used as a food additive, amylase has E number E1100, and may be derived from swine pancreas or mould mushroom.