In contrast, MELK overexpression promoted tumor growth (1.6 ± 0.50 g vs. 0.54 ± 0.14 g, P < 0.01) and peritoneal spreading and metastasis (22.3 ± 7.06 vs. 14.9 ± 3.38, P < 0.01, Additional file 7: Figure S7A-7D). Here, MELK is linked to neoplasm.