We found a significantly strong correlation (> 0.5 or < − 0.5, p < 0.05) between HK3 mRNA level and expression of seven of 21 examined genes (ZEB2, GREM1, TGFB3, TGFB1, SNAI2, TWIST1, and COL1A1) in CRC. This evidence concerns the gene TWIST1 and colorectal carcinoma.