Overexpression of Smad7 could block activation of TGF‐β/Smad signalling while reduction of renal Smad7 could result in over‐activation of TGF‐β/Smad signalling and progression of renal fibrosis.37 In this study, we found AKBA increased the expression of Smad7 in vivo and in vitro experiments. Here, SMAD7 is linked to renal fibrosis.