- LCRC-exclusive group of cancer cells is enriched for genes (TFF1, TFF2, AGR3, MUC5AC etc.) involved in mucosal protection/epithelial healing. Higher expression of these genes was IHC-verified in LCRC vs. RCRC.- This group demonstrated upregulated estrogen, ERBB, TNF etc. signaling pathways, enhanced cell death (apoptosis, autophagy) and metabolism (lipid, amino acid and oxidative phosphorylation). Here, TNF is linked to cancer.