CTSK and neoplasm: Sixteen of the ECM-associated genes were co-expressed both in NAU and in the NMIBC stages, including genes promoting basolateral tumor cell migration (i.e., MMP2, CTSK, PDPN), fibrotic collagens (i.e., COL1A2, COL6A3, COL14A1, COL15A1), and pro-angiogenic factors (i.e., PDGFRA, RECK), suggesting a pro-tumorigenic potential in the NAU.