Identifying bacteria and studying bacterial diversity using the 16S ribosomal RNA gene-based sequencing techniques: A review

Abstract

This study reflects the usefulness of sequence analysis of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene in identifying bacteria and determining bacterial diversity. Various techniques that are based on utilizing the 16S rRNA gene are discussed. Of critical importance is the use of massively parallel sequencing to study bacterial diversity. Through massively parallel sequencing which is replacing traditional methods of bacterial identification; various bacterial habitats are surveyed to compile their species compositions.  \r\r\t \r\r\tKey words: Bacterial identification, 16S ribosomal RNA gene, DNA.