What is the main role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) in the research process and how does it ensure the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects?

The main role of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to review and approve research studies involving human subjects to ensure that they are conducted ethically and in accordance with regulations. The IRB evaluates the study's design, procedures, and potential risks to participants to protect their rights and well-being. It also ensures that informed consent is obtained from participants and that their confidentiality is maintained.