Institutional Review Boards

Definition

Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are committees established to review and approve research involving human subjects to ensure that their rights and welfare are protected. These boards assess the ethical aspects of research proposals, particularly in contexts like dual-use research of concern in biotechnology, where findings could be misapplied for harmful purposes. IRBs play a crucial role in maintaining ethical standards and fostering public trust in scientific research.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. IRBs are required by federal regulations for any research involving human subjects funded by the government or conducted at institutions that receive federal funding.
2. The primary purpose of an IRB is to assess risks and benefits to ensure that the potential benefits of research outweigh the risks to participants.
3. IRBs review protocols for compliance with ethical standards and legal regulations, including confidentiality and data protection measures.
4. In the context of dual-use research, IRBs must consider not just the immediate implications of the research but also potential future misuse or abuse of the findings.
5. An IRB typically includes members from diverse backgrounds, such as scientists, ethicists, and community representatives, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of proposed studies.

Review Questions

• How do Institutional Review Boards contribute to ensuring ethical standards in research involving human subjects?
  • Institutional Review Boards contribute by reviewing research proposals to evaluate risks versus benefits for participants. They ensure that the rights, welfare, and dignity of human subjects are prioritized by requiring informed consent and assessing compliance with ethical guidelines. This oversight helps maintain public trust in research practices while safeguarding individuals from potential harm.
• Discuss the challenges that Institutional Review Boards face when reviewing dual-use research proposals in biotechnology.
  • IRBs face challenges in balancing the potential benefits of dual-use research against the risks of misuse. They must consider not only how research could advance scientific knowledge but also how it could be exploited for harmful purposes. This requires a nuanced understanding of both the science involved and the ethical implications, often necessitating collaboration with bioethicists and security experts to ensure thorough evaluations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Institutional Review Boards in mitigating risks associated with dual-use research in biotechnology and suggest possible improvements.
  • The effectiveness of Institutional Review Boards in mitigating risks is significant but could be enhanced through better training on dual-use concerns and broader interdisciplinary collaboration. By integrating perspectives from fields like biosecurity, law enforcement, and public policy, IRBs can more effectively anticipate potential abuses of research. Additionally, establishing clearer guidelines on evaluating dual-use implications can help streamline reviews and promote more consistent decision-making across different institutions.

Related terms

Informed Consent: The process through which researchers obtain voluntary participation from subjects after providing them with all relevant information regarding the study.

Research Ethics: The moral principles guiding researchers to conduct studies responsibly and ethically, ensuring the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants are prioritized.

Dual-use Research: Research that has the potential to be used for both beneficial and harmful purposes, especially in areas like biotechnology and biosecurity.