Which statement about the relationship between an institution and its IRB(s) is accurate?

The accurate statement regarding the relationship between an institution and its Institutional Review Board (IRB) is that officials of the institution may overrule an IRB approval. This reflects the broader context of how IRBs function within the hierarchy of research governance.

While the primary role of the IRB is to protect the rights and welfare of research participants by reviewing and approving research protocols, the institution retains ultimate authority over the conduct of research within its jurisdiction. This means that institutional officials can decide to disallow a study, even if the IRB has given its approval. This is often grounded in considerations such as institutional policy, ethical values, or potential risks not fully addressed by the IRB.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial, as it underscores the balance between the ethical oversight provided by the IRB and the institutional framework within which research occurs. Institutions must consider various factors, including their reputation, ethical commitments, and compliance with regulations when deciding whether to uphold or overturn IRB decisions.