CD44high/ESAlow cells were isolated from both cell lines and fresh OSCC tumour samples and were localised in situ at the periphery of colonies, exhibited enhanced sphere formation, and had a greater expression of EMT markers (Vimentin, Twist, Snail, Axl) and a lower expression of epithelial-specific genes (E-cadherin, Calgranulin B, Involucrin, Keratin 15). This evidence concerns the gene SNAI1 and neoplasm.