In addition, knockout of Mettl1 in the pre-existing ESCCs decreased m7G tRNA modification, RPTOR protein level and increased the level of LC3 in the ESCC tumors (Supplementary Fig. 11h–m), supporting the essential roles of METTL1/m7G tRNA modification/RPTOR/autophagy axis in ESCC progression in vivo. This evidence concerns the gene RPTOR and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.