RISA involves sequencing of a ribosomal gene or a fragment of the ribosomal gene. Ribosomal genes contain short segments between the main coding regions. They contain non-coding information that varies slightly in different organisms. Because of this variation, there is no bias in the sequencing of the genes and therefore the analysis is independent of the species being investigated. It is one of the most common techniques used to characterize microbial communities. It has many advantages over culture-based methods. There is no need to grow the cells. The technique also avoids the biases present in culture-based RISA methods such as selection pressure that results from environmental conditions. It is also possible to identify the different types of environments the cells have been exposed to. For example, this can include different temperatures, pH levels, salinity levels and chemical exposure. It can also be used to find out if the cells are resistant to antibiotics. RISA is used to identify the strains of different microorganisms. It also allows us to determine the similarities and differences between populations. It is used for both basic science research and clinical research.
