In addition, we found a positive correlation between the expression of STAT3 and stemness-related genes, including ABCG2, CD133, EPCAM, OCT4, SALL4, SOX2 and NANOG in CRC specimens from the GSE39582 and GSE17538 cohorts (Fig.S4A). This evidence concerns the gene POU5F1 and colorectal carcinoma.