For the 3 studies with cut-off value of > = 30%, the sensitivity analysis in random effect model demonstrated positive MUC1 expression was significantly correlated with higher Duke’s stage of CRC with the combined OR of 3.79 and 95% CI of 1.51–9.53 (χ2 = 6.95, P = 0.031, I2 = 71.2%, Fig 4C). The gene discussed is MUC1; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.