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The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust

230 Park Avenue, Suite 659, New York, NY, 10169, United States

Overview

The Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional nonprofits and mission-aligned organizations in the U.S. and around the world in health, place-based initiatives, education and human services.

Total investments
1
Lead investments
1
Investments · 12mo
0
Active investors
3

Sector focus

  • Association
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Investment portfolio

  • Thetis Pharmaceuticals

    Led · Debt Financing · Jan 2025

    Thetis Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage company developing TP-317, a first-in-class oral RvE1 small molecule that targets the LTB4-BLT1 pathway to treat inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. TP-317 is designed to control inflammation and promote intestinal barrier integrity without compromising the body’s ability to fight infection. A Phase 1a study in healthy volunteers demonstrated favorable safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profiles. The company plans a Phase 1b trial in ulcerative colitis patients in 2025 to identify safe and effective dosing. Thetis emphasizes a barrier-protective mechanism that may distinguish TP-317 from existing immunosuppressive therapies. The company has secured program-related funding from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to advance the program, with the latest loan supporting the upcoming patient study. Thetis Pharmaceuticals is a development-stage drug company whose lead candidate is TP101, an oral therapy targeting Type 2 diabetes. TP101 is presented as a potential first-line oral treatment that may regulate blood glucose, control triglycerides, and slow the incidence of cardiovascular events in diabetic patients. The company also highlights TP101 as a safe and effective approach for the growing pre-diabetes population. Thetis expects to open an IND and complete early clinical studies through Phase IIa within 3–4 years. Beyond TP101, the company is exploring opportunities in the omega-3 and metformin arenas. Leadership includes Frank Sciavolino, Ph.D., Banavara (Larry) Mylari, Ph.D., and G. Alexander Fleming, M.D., who bring extensive industry and regulatory experience. The company raised a $1.5M seed round with participation from Connecticut Innovations, Stonehenge Partners, and angel investors.

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