AKT1 and renal fibrosis: <i>In vivo</i> studies showed that HSYA modulated the expression of autophagy-related genes (PI3K, AKT, mTOR) and alleviated renal fibrosis in DN mice.<h4>Conclusion</h4>This study provides preliminary evidence that HSYA may alleviate DN by improving renal fibrosis and modulating autophagy, thereby establishing a theoretical basis for its development as a potential therapeutic agent.