TaMs6, encoding a GDSL esterase/lipase protein, functions in male fertility in common wheat

Male reproductive development is necessary for the alternation of the life cycle in angiosperms. Due to functional redundancy of genes in the allohexaploid genome of common wheat, there are only two loci of recessive nuclear genic male sterility (GMS) mutations reported in wheat. Here, we report a new wheat recessive GMS gene, TaMs6, which encodes a GDSL esterase/lipase protein (GELP). TaMs6 is predominantly expressed in the anther during meiosis and the unicellular microspore stage, especially in meiotic cells (MCs), dyad cells, tapetum, and middle layer. The loss of TaMs6 function leads to male sterility, likely due to the downregulation of some pollen development-related genes and changes in lipid composition during meiosis. The ms6 mutant and Ms6 gene can potentially be utilized for developing commercial-scale hybrid wheat breeding systems. We also systematically analyzed the GELP gene family in wheat, providing a comprehensive understanding of the TaGELP family and offering valuable references for in-depth genetic studies. Additionally, we discovered the nonallelic noncomplementation of two male-sterile mutants, which presents an interesting and promising research direction.