We proved that SFRP1 significantly enhances the malignant phenotypes of ESCC cells in vitro and progression in vivo, suggesting that targeting the WNT pathway via SFRP1 may be a promising strategy for the treatment of ESCC as ESCC has a high frequency (up to 86%) of alterations in the WNT pathway7. Here, SFRP1 is linked to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.