Integration with RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses confirmed an increased expression of genes involved in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, invasiveness (Csf1r, Trpm4, Itga5, Wee1, Baiap2, Ttll7 and Spire1) and immune escape (Gpr17), coupled with repression of genes involved in tumor suppression and immune recognition (Cdh1, Il12b, Tlr5, Cdk2ap1, Il34, Il16 and Ctsl) in CD44H IFN–CSCs (Extended Data Fig. 5a). Here, GPR17 is linked to neoplasm.