Importantly, while we do find significant prognostic and predictive value using Bcl-xL gene expression in 2 independent cohorts, final validation of this discovery approach would require transcriptional data, detailed treatment information and clinical follow up from an independent well balanced cohort, preferably in a clinically trial setting, enriched for the specific subtype of interest, in our case BRAFMT stage II/III CRC. Here, BCL2L1 is linked to colorectal carcinoma.