To explore the potential source of the ECM/stromal gene signature in NSCLC, we used multiparametric flow cytometry and were able to identify a subset of non-hematopoietic, non-endothelial cells that were marked by CD90 and CD73 within tumour digests obtained from NSCLC patients undergoing resection for curative intent. Here, THY1 is linked to non-small cell lung carcinoma.