The present invention provides a novel gene WMS conferring wheat male sterility, its anther-specific expression promoter, and uses of the same. In wheat, a well-known gene Ms2 causing dominant male sterility has been widely applied in recurrent selection in China. A RNA-seq approach was performed to reveal the anther-specific transcriptome in a pair of Ms2 isogenic lines, 'Lumai 15' and 'Lumai 15+Ms2'. As a result, a WMS gene was identified showing anther-specific expression at the early stage of meiosis and only in wheat carrying the Ms2 gene. The regulation of WMS could alter plant male fertility. The promoter of WMS was found to comprise anther-specific activity. Thus, the present invention might be used to achieve anther-specific gene expression, to develop male sterility in various plant species, to establish recurrent selection in various plant species, and to assist hybrid seed production.
