The immune system is critical in recognising and eliminating cancer cells.6 In NSCLC, T‐cell responses have been noted against lung cancer tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs), such as cancer–testis antigens (e.g. MAGE‐A3).2 In addition, tumor neoantigens, which are antigens expressed exclusively on tumor cells, have also been shown to initiate antitumor immune responses.7 However, despite T‐cell recognition, tumors still develop due to direct tumor immunoediting, immune cell suppression and/or an inhibitory cytokine milieu.8 This evidence concerns the gene MAGEA3 and cancer.