Data from immunolblots and immunohistological analysis in the current study showed meprin β mediates downstream IL‐6‐ apoptotic effects via increased CASP3 and BCL‐2 levels in IR‐induced kidney injury, which could be supported by the previously reported dual effect of CASP3 and inducing cellular responses other than apoptosis (Lamkanfi et al., 2007). This evidence concerns the gene BCL2 and kidney injury.