Amylase (Carbohydrase)
Probiotics & Enzymes
Overview
- Definition: Amylase, often marketed as “Carbohydrase,” is a family of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of starches and other complex carbohydrates.
- Function: It breaks down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose.
- Supplement Use: In dietary supplements, amylase supports digestive efficiency by breaking down dietary carbohydrates.
- Benefits: Improves nutrient availability and reduces digestive discomfort after carbohydrate-rich meals.
Chemistry
- Type: Amylase is a protein (≈45–55 kDa).
- Composition: Comprised of 400–500 amino acids.
- Molecular Formula: Varies by isoform; for human pancreatic α‑amylase: C₂₈₈₅H₄₅₁₂N₈₈₈O₈₈₁S₁₁ with a molecular weight of ~55 kDa.
- Family: Belongs to the GH13 family.
- Structure: Possesses a TIM‑barrel (α/β) fold with a central catalytic pocket containing the Asp‑Glu‑Asp triad (Asp197, Glu233, Asp300 in the human isoform) essential for hydrolysis.
- Additional Features: The protein is glycosylated and contains several disulfide bridges that stabilize its tertiary structure.
- pH Optimum: pH optimum is 6.7–7.0 for pancreatic amylase.
- Temperature Optimum: Temperature optimum around 37 °C.
- Stability: The enzyme is stable in the acidic environment of the stomach when coated or formulated with enteric protection.
Sources & Quality
- Sources: Commercial amylase is sourced from animal pancreas (porcine or bovine) and microbial fermentation (e.g., Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus oryzae).
- Animal-Derived Enzymes: Extracted from fresh pancreatic tissue, purified by precipitation, ultrafiltration, and lyophilization.
- Microbial Enzymes: Microbial strains are cultured in bioreactors, and the enzyme is harvested from the broth, followed by purification steps (ion-exchange, chromatography) to achieve high purity (>95 %).
- Plant-Derived Amylase: Plant‑derived amylase (e.g., from barley) is also used in “vegetarian‑friendly” formulations.
- Quality Considerations:
- Enzyme activity units.
- Absence of contaminants (e.g., endotoxins, heavy metals).
- Stable delivery (enteric coating) to protect the enzyme from gastric acid.
- Recommended Certifications: Certifications such as GMP, USP‑verified potency, and third-party allergen testing are recommended for reliable supplement products.
Where to Buy Amylase (Carbohydrase)
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