What consequence can arise from a member not disclosing a conflict of interest?

The choice indicating that a conflict of interest not being disclosed can lead to the invalidation of the IACUC review process is particularly relevant in the context of ensuring ethical standards and integrity in research involving animal subjects. When a conflict of interest is not disclosed, it compromises the objectivity of the review process and may lead to biased decisions that favor the interests of the conflicted individual over the welfare of the animals or the integrity of the research.

The IACUC's primary role is to ensure that all research follows ethical guidelines, including impartial evaluation of protocols. If a reviewer has a conflict that they do not disclose, their input could undermine the credibility of the review process, leading to potential ethical violations and nullifying the legitimacy of the outcomes of that process. This invalidation serves as a safeguard to maintain trust in the regulatory system governing animal research and protects the institution from reputational damage and legal repercussions that can arise from unethical practices.

This is why disclosing conflicts of interest is essential; it helps maintain the integrity of the IACUC and ensures that all protocols are evaluated fairly and without bias, thereby upholding the ethical standards of animal research.