Which role does the IRB have in protecting subjects in research involving sensitive populations?

The role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) in protecting subjects in research involving sensitive populations is primarily focused on reviewing proposed research to minimize risks to subjects. This involves carefully assessing the research protocols submitted by investigators to ensure that the rights and welfare of participants are safeguarded.

When research involves sensitive populations, such as children, prisoners, or individuals with cognitive impairments, the potential risks can be higher, and the IRB must take extra precautions. The board evaluates factors such as informed consent processes, the potential for coercion or undue influence, and the adequacy of measures in place to protect confidentiality and privacy. By conducting this thorough review, the IRB helps to ensure that research is conducted ethically and that participants are not exposed to unnecessary harm.

In contrast, options like approving all research without questions or conducting the research itself do not align with the IRB's purpose. The IRB’s mandate is not to provide funding, either; its primary function revolves around oversight and ethical review. Thus, the focus on minimizing risks to subjects through review processes highlights the vital protective role of the IRB in sensitive research contexts.