What is the role of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)?

The role of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) is crucial in ensuring the ethical treatment of human subjects involved in research. IRBs are responsible for reviewing and approving research protocols to ensure that they comply with ethical standards and regulations. This includes assessing the risks and benefits of the research, evaluating informed consent procedures, and ensuring that the rights and welfare of participants are protected.

By reviewing protocols before research commences, IRBs help safeguard against potential ethical violations, such as inadequate protection of vulnerable populations or insufficient disclosure of risks to participants. This process not only enhances the credibility of the research but also maintains public trust in the research process.

In contrast, other roles mentioned in the options, such as conducting research, overseeing the marketing of medical devices, or providing funding for medical research, are not within the primary scope of what IRBs do. Each of these roles pertains to different aspects of research and development but does not focus specifically on the ethical oversight responsibilities assigned to IRBs.