CD45-negative but epithelial cell adhesion molecule (Epcam) positive (CD45− Epcam+) tumor cells were isolated from tumor nodules in s.c. MC38 model (as presented in Supplementary Fig. 2a) or from metastases in the CT26 orthotopic liver/lung metastasis model (as presented in Fig. 2l; Supplementary Fig. 1q). The gene discussed is EPCAM; the disease is neoplasm.