To this end, pcDNA3.1‐TMEM161B‐AS1 combined with miR‐23a‐3p mimic or HIF1AN siRNA as well as TMEM161B‐AS1 siRNA along with miR‐23a‐3p inhibitor or pcDNA3.1‐HIF1AN were applied to rescue experiment for further elucidation of TMEM161B‐AS1 functions in ESCC cells. The gene discussed is HIF1AN; the disease is esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.