ZAO

Zao is a high-profile biotechnology company focused on reimagining the future of medicine through a platform that targets the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its role in disease. Founded by industry veterans including Ryan Watts (CEO of Denali Therapeutics) and Stacie Weninger, the company is backed by leading venture capital firms such as ARCH Venture Partners. Zao aims to develop novel therapeutics for high-unmet-need areas, particularly neurodegenerative diseases and potentially oncology, by leveraging deep insights into cellular environments and protein interactions. The company currently operates in stealth mode, building a pipeline of innovative programs that utilize diverse modalities including small molecules and antibodies.