Two new studies found that ancient human ancestors carried a surprising diversity of genes for amylase, an enzyme that breaks down starch. By Carl Zimmer As soon as you put starch in your mouth — ...

Amylases are important enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates to simple sugar molecules. They are important for digesting food and allowing the body mobilize carbohydrates for metabolism.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Scientists can now turn on or off the enzymes responsible for processing starchy foods into sugars in the human digestive system, a finding they believe will allow them to ...