The consensus molecular subtypes of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

ABSTRACT: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) lacks a standardized classification system, resulting in inconsistent clinical management and a suboptimal prognosis. This study addresses the urgent need for a robust consensus taxonomy to facilitate precision treatment for ESCC. We employed a network-based approach to elucidate the interconnections among eight existing classification systems, leading to the identification of four distinct consensus molecular subtypes (ECMSs): ECMS1-MET (metabolic), characterized by dysregulated metabolic pathways and NFE2L2 activation; ECMS2-CLS (classical), featuring upregulated cell cycle and canonical signaling pathways; ECMS3-IM (immunomodulatory), marked by robust immune activation and elevated PD-1 expression; and ECMS4-MES (mesenchymal), associated with me

SUBMITTER: Cui H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12920625 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature