Background: ARA290 is a non-erythropoietic EPO derivative which only binds to the cytoprotective receptor complex (EPOR2-beta cR(2)) consisting of two EPO-receptors (EPOR) and two beta common receptors (beta cR). ARA290 is renoprotective in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). In a renal I/R model we focussed on timing of post-reperfusional administration of ARA290. Furthermore, we investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of ARA290. Methods: Twenty-six male Lewis/HanHsd rats were exposed to unilateral ischemia for 30 minutes, with subsequent removal of the contralateral kidney. Post-reperfusion, ARA290 was administered early (one hour), late (four hours) or repetitive (one and four hours). Saline was used as vehicle treatment. Rats were sacrificed after three days. Results: Early ARA290 treatment improved renal function. Late-or repetitive treatment tended to improve clinical markers. Furthermore, early ARA290 treatment reduced renal inflammation and acute kidney injury at three days post-reperfusion. Late-or repetitive treatment did not affect inflammation or acute kidney injury. Conclusions: ARA290 attenuated renal ischemia/reperfusion injury. This study showed the anti-inflammatory effect of ARA290 and suggests early administration in the post-reperfusional phase is most effective. ARA290 is a candidate drug for protection against ischemic injury following renal transplantation.