Why does the durian stink? Scientists unravel smelly fruit's DNA

Despite its stomach-churning aroma, the durian is an important tropical fruit crop and knowing more about its DNA may help protect it

Once described by a detractor as smelling of "turpentine and onions, garnished with a gym sock", southeast Asia's durian fruit leaves no one unmoved - you either adore or abhor it.

Popular in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, the spiny, stinky delicacy is banned from public transport and many hotels because of its strong smell.