This review focuses on the metabolic issues related to mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase (PDP) in malignant tumors and its potential mechanisms. Recent research on tumor metabolic mechanisms has shown that PDP dysregulation is closely linked to metabolic reprogramming in tumor cells, and potentially promotes tumor. Research has comprehensively explored the structural-functional characteristics of PDP, its metabolic regulatory mechanisms, and its role in various types of malignant tumors. Nevertheless, several questions still exist regarding its potential mechanisms within acetylation, phosphorylation, hypoxia, immune infiltration, mitochondrial metabolism, drug resistance, oxidative phosphorylation, and tumor prognosis. This article intends to summarize the latest research, examine PDP’s potential as a therapeutic target, and propose future research directions to enhance cancer treatment strategies.