CXCL12 and cancer: In summary, we have identified the a panel of six differentially expressed real hub genes (hub genes of the hub genes) including CXCL12, CXCL8, AGT, GNB1, GNG4, and CXCL1 and their underlying molecular pathways that could be employed as a possible diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in CRC patients of different races, cancer stages, genders, age groups, and body weight and thus may help to overcome the heterogeneity-specific barrier.