The study published in BMC Oral Health (2025) explored the relationship between the number of copies of the AMY1 gene and the severity of dry mouth conditions, including Sjögren's syndrome. The research found that higher numbers of the AMY1 gene, which is responsible for producing salivary α-amylase, an enzyme in saliva, were associated with less severe symptoms of dry mouth.
This suggests that the AMY1 gene copy number could serve as a genetic marker to help identify individuals at risk for these conditions early on. The significance of this finding lies in the potential for AMY1 copy number to be used as a biomarker for early detection of dry mouth-related conditions. By identifying individuals with a lower copy number of the AMY1 gene, healthcare providers could potentially intervene sooner, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
