Radioimmunoassay (RIA) is an immunoassay technique that uses radiolabeled molecules to detect and quantify antigens or antibodies. RIA involves attaching a radioactive isotope to an antigen or antibody, then measuring the unbound antigen after the labeled and unlabeled antigens compete for binding sites on antibodies. RIAs are highly sensitive and can detect very low concentrations of substances like hormones, drugs, and vitamins in samples. They have various applications in disease diagnosis, drug monitoring, and pharmaceutical research.