Peach Blossom (IMAGE) DOE/Joint Genome Institute Caption With its close relationship to the poplar genome, the peach genome offers researchers more than just the opportunity to learn more about the basic biology of trees. For example, comparing peach gene families to those of six other fully sequenced diverse plant species is helping to unravel unique metabolic pathways such as those that lead to lignin biosynthesis -- the molecular "glue" that holds the plant cells together -- and a key barrier to deconstructing biomass into fuels. Credit Jonathan Eisen Usage Restrictions use as credited License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.