CTHOMAS@BIONET-20.BIO.NET (Charles Thomas) (09/01/88)
HELICON FOUNDATION
4622 Santa Fe Street, San Diego CA 92037
619 272 3884
The Helicon Foundation is a small, non-profit,
basic research institute that was formed in 1981. The
Foundation's staff has averaged about 12 including 5 Ph.D.-
level scientists. Helicon's research is initiated by the
independent investigators and supported by federal and
private grants and occasionally by corporations or private
individuals.
The governance of the Helicon Foundation is the
responsibility of the Board of Directors which includes
scientists, businessmen and attorneys. The president is
Charles A. Thomas, Jr.
The Laboratory is located near UCSD, the Salk
Institute, Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation, etc.,
making it convenient for collaborative work and attending
seminars. The laboratory space, 8000 ft on a single floor,
is equipped for biochemistry, and molecular biology:
scintillation counters, spectrophotometers centrifuges,
HPLC, sequencing apparatus, cell culture etc.
At this time, a number of research programs are
underway in the Helicon Laboratories: One involves the
measurement of the frequency of oxidative damage to the
nuclear DNA of human cells in culture. Another, is directed
to the detection of gene regulation in marine phytoplankta.
A third is attempting elucidate an unusual DNA structure
formed by the telomeres of a ciliated protozoa. A fourth is
aimed at developing simple and reliable immunochemical tests
for enteric diseases found mainly in tropical countries.
Helicon provides a supportive environment for
young investigators free from teaching and other obligations
required in university or other academic laboratories.
Although emphasizing basic research, Helicon supports more
applied developments when the opportunity arises. Helicon's
endowment is small at present, but slowly growing.
Helicon's endowment is being developed by
encouraging the formation of new for-profit companies in
which Helicon owns a small percentage interest. Helicon
makes available laboratory space, provides accounting
services, legal help and a range of personal contacts. So
far, we have played a significant role in launching four new
companies - all of which have products on the market, and
one of which is a public corporation. We would like to do
more. If you are interested in learning more about the
activities of the Helicon Foundation, please write or
call the address above.
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