While we do recognise certain, possibly generalisable, features, the complexity of effects requires further experimental scrutiny, both, to reach a better understanding of the impact of the endogenous IFN-system on cancer cell surveillance and control, as well as to direct the development of parameters and biomarkers allowing the stratification of putatively IFN-responsive versus non-responsive tumours for individualised oncological therapies. This evidence concerns the gene IFNA1 and cancer.