TXNIP overexpression in tubular epithelial cells increases the expression levels of the cellular senescence markers p16INK4a and γH2AX and the profibrotic factors α-SMA, TGF-β1/SMAD3, and collagen I, which ultimately lead to aging-related renal fibrosis and a decline in kidney function. This evidence concerns the gene SMAD3 and renal fibrosis.