Functional validation included RT-qPCR quantification of PLK1 mRNA in NC-treated HCT116 cells and dose-dependent IHC analysis of PLK1 protein in HCT116 xenograft tumors following NC or 5-FU administration.<h4>Results</h4>PLK1 was identified as a prominent NC-responsive gene and was consistently overexpressed in CRC across multiple datasets. This evidence concerns the gene PLK1 and colorectal carcinoma.