The function of AMY1A (amylase alpha 1A, ENSG00000237763) is as follows. Calcium-binding enzyme that initiates starch digestion in the oral cavity (PubMed:12527308). Catalyzes the hydrolysis of internal (1->4)-alpha-D-glucosidic bonds, yielding a mixture of maltose, isomaltose, small amounts of glucose as well as small linear and branched oligosaccharides called dextrins (PubMed:12527308). .