Querying the TCGA HNSCC dataset we identified 8 potential mRNA targets (ESM1, KLF4, IL8, CCL20, IL24, CCNA1, TIMP4 and MMP1) from our validated 20 mRNA panel, which were aberrantly expressed in HNSCC and controlled by CELF1 in oral cancer cells. This evidence concerns the gene KLF4 and lip and oral cavity carcinoma.