What does the Common Rule do in the context of research ethics?

The Common Rule establishes ethical principles for the protection of human subjects involved in research. It serves as a foundational framework for ethical standards and guidelines that govern research activities funded or regulated by federal agencies. This set of regulations emphasizes the rights and welfare of participants, mandating informed consent, institutional review board (IRB) oversight, and measures to minimize risks to participants.

This framework is crucial because it enforces a consistent standard across various research institutions, thereby enhancing the ethical conduct of research involving human subjects. By establishing these principles as law, the Common Rule ensures that researchers adhere to ethical practices, safeguarding participants' rights and welfare. This is particularly significant in the context of clinical trials and various fields of biomedical research, where considerations about the ethical treatment of subjects must be paramount.