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. This evidence concerns the gene DNAJC2 and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.