Phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (Phosphoglycerate kinase 1,PGK1) is a key metabolic enzyme in the glycolytic pathway that could catalyze the conversion of 1,3-bisphosphoglycerate to 3-phosphoglycerate, thereby generating ATP during glycolysis. PGK1 has a central position in the induction of tumor cell autophagy, regulation of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and tumor cell drug resistance, among other mechanisms. It also functions in the glycolytic pathway by regulating cellular metabolism, promoting ATP production in tumor cells and driving the Warburg effect. The aim of this paper is to describe the research progress on the molecular mechanism of PGK1 in the occurrence and development of various malignant tumors, and to bring new ideas for exploring the treatment of malignant tumors. Many studies have found that the expression of PGK1 is elevated in a range of malignant tumors and is closely related to the development and progression of multiple malignant tumors. The high expression of PGK1, a key enzyme in the glycolytic pathway, enhances glycolytic activity. And high expression of PGK1 can provide more energy for tumor cells and boost the proliferation and growth of tumor cells. PGK1 can also facilitate the proliferation and metastasis of malignant tumor cells by activating specific signaling pathways, such as CXCR4/ERK, PI3K/AKT, etc. PGK1 involves multiple post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, acetylation and ubiquitination during malignant tumorigenesis and progression. It is possible that these modifications can further influence the metabolism and proliferative capacity of tumor cells by adjusting the function, stability, and protein expression levels of PGK1. Therefore, it can offer a new strategy for tumor treatment that clarifying the molecular mechanism of PGK1. PGK1 can be a potential molecular target for malignant tumor therapy and a significant breakthrough in the treatment of glioma.