In CKD rats, administration of ASP attenuated the induction of NF-κB and GATA2 both in kidney and liver (Figures 6D,E), and also reduced the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β (Figures 5E,F), which would rescue the inhibition of EPO gene transcription by inflammation and further facilitate EPO restoration. The gene discussed is IL1B; the disease is chronic kidney disease.