FOXO3a are expressed in most tissues and cells, including fibroblasts.19 Accumulation of collagen and increased expression of α‐SMA is associated with FOXO3a inactivation.20 Moreover, suppressed FOXO3a activity resulting from hyperphosphorylation of FOXO3a by Akt was found closely linked to the progression of IPF.21 However, limited evidence linked the relationship between FOXO3a and EMT in pulmonary fibrosis. This evidence concerns the gene FOXO3 and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.