Abstract: Proteinaceous α-amylase inhibitors play a natural role in the control of endogenous α-amylase activity and the defense against pests and pathogens; some inhibitors were reported to have anti-nutritional function. In this review, the classification, common methods of purification and activity-determination, especially the structure and inhibitory mechanism of proteinaceous α-amylase inhibitors were introduced. The applications of α-amylase inhibitors in pest control, as well as in nutrition, heath, and disease prevention were also summarized.

Key words: proteinaceous α-amylase inhibitor, physicochemical property, inhibitory mechanism, application