CLDN1 is a membrane protein involved in the formation of tight junctions between cells and regulates the proliferation and metastasis of various tumors [38], including ESCC by inducing autophagy through the AMPK/STAT1/ULK1 signaling pathway [39], and is closely related to lymphocyte reactions in colorectal cancer [40]. This evidence concerns the gene ULK1 and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.