Anther-specific taa1 genes encoding fatty acyl co-a reductases, and uses thereof

The present invention provides isolated and purified polynucleotide sequences encoding fatty acyl Co-A reductase (FAR) enzymes derived from wheat, designated TAA1 genes. The invention encompasses genes that encode FAR enzymes that are useful in the production of transgenic plants and other organisms that comprise increased or otherwise altered levels of fatty alcohols. Such plants may have significant commercial value for the production of fatty alcohols for use in nutritional and pharmaceutical compositions. The invention also provides corresponding TAA1 anther-specific promoters, suitable for the expression of proteins other than FAR enzymes in the anthers and pollen cells of suitably transformed plants.