In summary, we have shown that a number of human NSCLC cell lines that are competent for IFNγ signaling (i.e. expressing IFNγ receptor-1 and STAT1) but have low expression levels of IAP proteins survivin and livin, can be readily killed and eradicated through apoptosis by IFNγ and Smac mimetic co-treatment without harming normal human lung epithelial cells. This evidence concerns the gene BIRC7 and non-small cell lung carcinoma.