Modulation of serine/threonine-protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) complexes: A promising approach in cancer treatment

•The development of new and optimized anticancer therapies is an urgent requirement.•Serine/threonine-protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) has been recognized as a potential drug target in cancer.•Several PP1 complexes have been characterized in cancer models.•The disruption or stabilization of PP1 complexes offer advantages in cancer treatment. Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the availability of numerous therapeutic options, tumor heterogeneity and chemoresistance have limited the success of these treatments, and the development of effective anticancer therapies remains a major focus in oncology research. The serine/threonine-protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) and its complexes have been recognized as potential drug targets. Research on the modulation of PP1 complexes is currently at an early stage, but has immense potential. Chemically diverse compounds have been developed to disrupt or stabilize different PP1 complexes in various cancer types, with the objective of inhibiting disease progression. Beneficial results obtained in vitro now require further pre-clinical and clinical validation. In conclusion, the modulation of PP1 complexes seems to be a promising, albeit challenging, therapeutic strategy for cancer.