In contrast, the remaining nine genes (PIWIL4, GSE1, NCOR1, BUB1, SAP30L, MASTL, DNAJC2, UBE2D1, and SSRP1) represent novel contributors, as their potential functions in ESCC progression and prognosis had not been previously elucidated. Here, NCOR1 is linked to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.