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 that former Gov. Arne Carlson sent to University of Minnesota regents expressing his concern over the university's handling of the case of Dan Markingson, a drug-trial patient.

Markingson committed suicide about a decade ago while in the study, and critics believe he was exploited by university researchers.

Today, University of Minnesota bioethicist Carl Elliott -- one of the harshest critics of the university's handling of the case -- forwarded to me a letter he says was written by Carlson, and which he and fellow U of M bioethicist Leigh Turner signed. It was to be distributed today to legislators, Elliott said.

A staff member for Sen. Chris Eaton (DFL - Brooklyn Center) said he was familiar with the letter, and that Carlson spoke with Eaton about it.

The letter criticizes the role played by the administration and the Board of Regents, saying they have not been the watchdog they should be in problematic drug-trial cases that may involve suicides, injuries and conflicts of interest, among other things:

The letter asks the Legislature to review annually the board's performance in meeting goals and challenges, and asks for a "special citizens commission" to review research of psychiatric drugs, as well as the oversight process and the performance of the board and other management.

The letter says the commission could help legislators in "setting up a more professional process for the selection of Regents. Defined and proven leadership talents must replace the current system which is little more than a political beauty contest."

I have a call or email in requesting comment from both Carlson and Board of Regents Chairman Richard Beeson.

Below is the letter. Following that is a reply forwarded by a university spokesman.

The university and its critics have clashed repeatedly over whether the U has adequately investigated the Markingson case.

Alex Friedrich

Author

It says the Board of Regents has not been the watchdog it should be in problematic drug-trial cases.

Letter to lawmakers criticizes regents’ oversight

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