• ZNF263 transcriptionally regulates GPSM2 expression in colorectal cancer.
• ZNF263 promotes CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion via GPSM2-dependent activation of the cell cycle pathway.
• Bioinformatics analysis of GEO datasets identifies GPSM2 and ZNF263 as key genes in CRC progression.
• Targeting ZNF263 and GPSM2 may offer novel therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer.