Most of the studies show that PHAP1 functions as a tumour suppressor in human breast cancer, pancreatic cancer and non‐small‐cell lung cancer.7, 8, 9 However, other reports demonstrate increased PHAP1 expression is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, prostate cancers and oral squamous cell carcinoma,10, 11, 12, 13, 14 suggesting PHAP1 can also promote cancers. This evidence concerns the gene ANP32A and familial pancreatic carcinoma.