Notably, lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 and SNHG1 were identified as common biomarkers in colon M0/N, colon M1/N, rectal M0/N and rectal M1/N groups, indicating their critical roles in the carcinogenesis of both colon and rectal cancers; lncRNA MALAT1 was recognized as biomarkers in colon M0/N and colon M1/N groups, suggesting its specific functions in diagnosing colon cancer rather than rectal cancer. Here, KCNQ1OT1 is linked to rectal cancer.