By Dr. Priyom Bose, Ph.D. Reviewed by Lauren Hardaker Jul 8 2025 New research reveals how a common gene variation boosts salivary enzymes, especially in people with diabetes, hinting at a possible biological link between starch digestion and blood glucose regulation. Study:  The association between salivary amylase gene copy number and enzyme activity with type 2 diabetes status . Image credit: MattL_Images/Shutterstock.com An elevated salivary amylase activity (SAA) in patients with type 2