Most people, upon hearing the word “urine,” might instinctively feel disgusted, as it’s often dismissed as mere waste. However, urine is actually a complex fluid rich in valuable components like urea, electrolytes, and various metabolic byproducts.
Beyond its role in bodily functions, urine holds untapped potential across multiple fields. For example, in agriculture, it can be repurposed as an organic fertiliser, supplying essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to crops, which promotes sustainable farming practices and reduces reliance on harmful synthetic fertilisers. In the medical field, urine is more than just a remedy for a jellyfish sting; it is being harnessed for its diagnostic potential, offering non-invasive ways to monitor health, detect diseases early, and manage chronic conditions. By viewing urine as a resource rather than waste, innovative approaches are emerging that can address environmental challenges, improve healthcare, and enhance overall well-being.
In this article, we highlight 10 promising European startups that are leveraging the power of urine for innovative and practical solutions. From advanced neuromodulation therapies and smart incontinence management systems to groundbreaking diagnostic tools and eco-friendly fertilisers, these companies are reshaping how we think about and use urine. Each startup on this list is not only addressing specific health and environmental needs but also pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability.
Amber Therapeutics: Based in London, Amber Therapeutics develops advanced neuromodulation therapies to treat mixed urinary incontinence in women. Their innovative Picostim™ System targets the pudendal nerve with a fully implantable device that can both stimulate and sense responses, adapting to individual needs. The AURA-2 study showed that the system is safe and effective, significantly improving the quality of life. Founded in 2021, Amber combines medical device expertise with a focus on innovative solutions for unmet clinical needs. The company has raised €94.9 million to advance its innovative treatments.
AssistMe: Based in Berlin, AssistMe is transforming elderly care through a smart sensor system integrated into adult diapers, and a mobile app to monitor residents’ needs in real-time. It automates tasks like incontinence management, pressure ulcer prevention, and documentation, allowing caregivers to respond promptly and efficiently. The system improves resident comfort and safety while reducing costs and administrative burdens. AssistMe’s goal is to make care processes more efficient and personalised, ultimately benefiting both residents and caregivers. Founded in 2016, and with an impressive funding round in 2019, they have secured over €5 million.
EG 427: Based in Paris, EG 427 is developing a new gene therapy approach called pinpoint gene therapy, specifically targeting bladder disorders. Using a non-replicative Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) vector platform, this method allows for precise and long-lasting expression of therapeutic genes. Their lead product, EG110A, is in preclinical development for neurogenic bladder dysfunction (NDO) and received IND clearance from the U.S. FDA in June 2024. Founded in 2019, they have raised €17 million aiming to offer long-term, effective solutions for chronic conditions, improving on existing treatment options.
inContAlert: Based in Bayern, Germany, inContAlert has developed a wearable device that measures bladder filling levels using a patented sensor and AI technology. The sensor data is displayed in an app, alerting incontinence patients when their bladder reaches critical levels. This technology helps prevent unplanned emptying and reduces the need for catheters, improving care efficiency and patient quality of life. Overall, it empowers individuals with neurogenic bladder dysfunction to regain control over their bladder. Founded in 2019, they have raised €2.6 million.
Jude: Based in London, Jude is a healthcare company focused on improving bladder care by developing all-natural, clinically proven supplements and products that help individuals regain control over their bladder function. Their flagship product, a bladder control supplement, combines pumpkin seed extract and soy germ isoflavones to strengthen the pelvic floor and reduce urgency, leaks, and night-time urination. Jude also offers leak-proof underwear and pads, all designed with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly, compostable materials. Founded in 2020, they have raised €6.7 million as part of their mission to break taboos around bladder health and create a supportive community for those affected.
Testmate Health: Based in Switzerland, Testmate offers a simple, at-home urine test that provides results for the four most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) within minutes. Using advanced DNA isothermal technology and Swiss microengineering, the disposable kits allow for quick and private testing anytime, anywhere. The test detects Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trichomoniasis, and Mycoplasma genitalium, and users can share results with their doctor via the Testmate app for immediate treatment. Testmate’s mission is to make sexual health testing accessible, empowering individuals to take control of their health while reducing the need for in-person medical appointments. Founded in 2020, they have raised €7.9 million.
The Blue Box: Based in Barcelona, The Blue Box is developing a pain-free, radiation-free, and accessible breast cancer screening test that detects breast cancer through biomarkers in urine. Using a proprietary electronic nose (eNose) and AI algorithms, the device analyses urine samples to identify breast cancer with a sensitivity of 88.42%, outperforming traditional mammography. The test is set to launch in gynaecology clinics by 2025, offering a low-cost, easy-to-use diagnostic solution through a subscription model. Founded in 2021, they have raised €1.9 million.
TOOPI Organics: Based in France, Toopi Organics collects and recycles human urine for agricultural use. They manufacture urine-sourced biostimulants rather than traditional fertilisers. Urine is collected from events, busy public toilets, and urban areas, then processed through filtration and fermentation to create a culture medium for bacteria of agronomic interest. Toopi’s first product, Lactopi Start, launched in France and Belgium, offers farmers an organic alternative to mineral and inorganic fertilisers, targeting phosphorus, nitrogen, and water stress. Founded in 2019, TOOPI Organics has raised €23.2 million.
Usense: Based in France, Usense has developed Jimini, a portable device that measures biomarkers in urine with a single click, providing real-time analysis for early diagnosis and disease detection. Combining patented photonic and electroanalysis technologies, Jimini acts as a miniaturised laboratory, offering healthcare professionals a convenient and hygienic tool for pre-analysis directly from the urine sample. The results can be securely viewed and transferred online through an integrated web application, enhancing medical practices. Their technology enables early diagnosis in medical consultations and emergencies, offering a quick and non-invasive way to monitor health. Founded in 2019, they have raised over €8.8 million.
Vunanexus: Based in Zurich, VunaNexus transforms urine into a valuable and eco-friendly fertiliser called Aurin through a patented treatment process developed at the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag). Their technology stabilises urine by removing pollutants and converting it into a ready-to-use fertiliser, addressing the inefficiencies of traditional wastewater treatment and synthetic fertiliser production. This innovation offers a sustainable solution for nutrient recycling, reducing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency. Founded in 2021, they have raised over €1.5 million.
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Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2024/08/10-european-startups-making-you-pee-and-not-because-of-laughter/
