To test the contribution of MAPK/ERK and AKT signalling pathways on the important role of HOXD-AS1, we inactivated the MAPK/ERK and AKT signalling in HOXD-AS1 depletion CRC cells with inhibitor of ERK (SCH772984) or AKT (LY294002), respectively (Additional file 9: Figure S7a). The gene discussed is AKT1; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.