ASS1 had the same function on autophagosome formation and proliferation of ESCC cells as PSMD2, suggesting that the tumorigenic roles of PSMD2 in ESCC progression are mediated by ASS1 (Fig. 3L–O, Additional file 1: Fig. S5B, C). The gene discussed is PSMD2; the disease is esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.