RNA-Seq utilizes highly efficient sequencing techniques and subsequent mapping of short sequence reads to a reference genome, making it possible to identify exons and introns by mapping their boundaries of genes, which in turn allows investigation of the complexity of transcriptomes in unparalleled detail. Moreover, RNA-Seq enables identification of transcription initiation sites and new splicing variants and permits quantitative determination of exon and splicing isoform expression. This innovative technology facilitates detailed examination of individual expression differences in human brain and makes it possible to dissect the genetic complexities of alcoholism and a variety of physiological conditions (Wang, Gerstein, & Snyder, 2009).
