SOCS1 and cancer: In various cancer types decreased SOCS1 expression was detected indicating a tumor suppressive nature.[22] Epigenetic inactivation of SOCS1 by methylation of the promoter or mutations of the SOCS1 gene was frequently observed.[23–25] In contrast, in breast cancer tissue SOCS1 is higher expressed than in control samples.[26] Similarly, in melanoma cells higher SOCS1 expression levels than in the corresponding normal tissues are detected.[27] These observed discrepancies in different cancer types require a more comprehensive investigation in a context specific manner.