CORVALLIS, Ore. (AP) -- Thirteen Oregon State researchers have helped sequence the genome of a woodland strawberry, which could extend the shelf life of fruit.

The Gazette-Times reports the research lasted more than two years. The Oregon State researchers were part of an international team of 70 scientists.

Strawberries share many of the same genes as apples, peaches and pears, making the research applicable to other fruit.

By sequencing the strawberry's genome, the researchers believe they have identified the genes responsible for flavor, nutritional value and disease resistance.

Through breeding, those characteristics could be transferred to other crops.

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Information from: Gazette-Times, http://www.gtconnect.com

Copyright 2010 The AP.