Data Analysis of 16S Ribosomal RNA Gene Sequences 

The 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene is present in all bacteria, often existing as a multigene family, and contains both conserved and variable nregions within its about 1500 bp length. The 16S rRNA gene is for these and other reasons the most commonly used single gene for typing of bacteria.
24 Use of primers directed against the conserved regions may be used for PCR amplification followed by DNA sequencing of the amplicon. The sequences obtained may be compared with sequences in comprehensive databases available on the Internet. Partial sequencing of the rRNA gene is often, but not always, sufficient for the identification of wellresolved bacterial species. Partial sequencing of one or more additional genes may be necessary for the genetic classification and distinguishing of species. It is an advantage that 16S rRNA genotyping can be done directly from patient samples without prior cultivation.