By Jimmy Daoutis, Founder of AdvancedMycoTech · Last updated: March 2026
UPDATED: May 16, 2022
A small University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine study reported longer survival times in dogs with an aggressive cancer when they were given a compound from turkey tail mushrooms. It is an early, encouraging result rather than a treatment — here is exactly what the researchers did and found. Researchers conducted a study on the canine cancer hemangiosarcoma. The study highlighted a compound that is found in Yunzhi mushroom (Coriolus versicolor). The compound, polysaccharopeptide (PSP), is found to provide the longest survival time for dogs suffering from hemangiosarcoma.
Dorothy Cimino Brown and Jennifer Reetz published their promising findings in the international, peer-reviewed journal, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (eCAM). The journal article was published in September of 2012.
Yunzhi mushroom has been used extensively by Chinese medicine practitioners for over two thousand years. It is believed to have excellent immune-boosting properties, and Western research is slowly beginning to examine those traditional uses in a controlled way.
Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive type of cancer that occurs most predominantly among German shepherds and golden retrievers. The cancer typically forms in the blood cells and devastates the spleen. The preference of the cancer for certain dog breeds may shed light on its possible genetic origins.
The fifteen dogs that were selected for the study were those that had naturally occurring hemangiosarcoma. Three groups of five dogs each were tested with varying doses of the synthesized and encapsulized formulation of PSP called I’m-Yunity.
Before PSP, the longest average survival time for dogs that received no treatment for their hemangiosarcoma of the spleen was 86 days. Using the compound derived from the Yunzhi mushroom, the longest survival time was extended to 199 days—more than twice for dogs whose hemangiosarcoma was left untreated. The most effective dosage of I’m-Yunity was found to be at 100 mg.
Further trials are still going to be pursued to compare the results to a placebo and chemotherapy. Refined treatment methods are also being looked at in conjunction with PSP.
This was a small trial of fifteen dogs with no placebo arm, so it is a promising early signal rather than a proven therapy. If your dog has been diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, your veterinary oncologist is the person to talk to about whether anything like this has a place alongside their treatment.
References:
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2012/384301/
https://www.advancedmycotech.com/11-health-benefits-lions-mane-mushroom
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Jimmy Daoutis
Founder, AdvancedMycoTech
Jimmy founded AdvancedMycoTech to bring evidence-based clarity to the confusing world of functional mushroom supplements. He personally researches every product recommendation and is committed to transparency — including being upfront that he’s not a doctor. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. AdvancedMycoTech may earn a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you.