Health — frequently asked questions
Short answers about the ablute_ (Ablute) biosensors, their technology and current status.
ablute_ (Ablute) is a Portuguese company developing a smart toilet with built-in biosensors that analyse urine during normal use. The same toilet washes itself autonomously and uses little water. ablute_ is currently in the pilot phase.
An in-toilet biosensor analyses urine inside the toilet during normal use, with no strips or cups. ablute_ uses a bioFET, an electronic sensor that turns the presence of a specific molecule into an electrical signal. Results are shown as trends over time.
The ablute_ bioFET has been demonstrated detecting creatinine, a marker commonly used in urine analysis. Other markers are in development and will be announced once validated.
A bioFET is a biologically sensitive field-effect transistor: a transistor whose surface recognises one specific molecule. When that molecule binds, the electrical current changes, and that change is measured. ablute_ uses bioFETs because they are small, electronic and can be integrated inside a toilet.
Not yet. ablute_ is in the pilot phase and is not yet a certified medical device. It does not provide a diagnosis.
No. ablute_ is designed to follow everyday trends and help people notice changes early. Laboratory tests and medical assessment remain the reference.
ablute_ is in the pilot phase. Its core bioFET sensing technology has been demonstrated and is working.
Institutions such as hospitals, clinics, research centres, universities and wellness centres can apply to host an ablute_ pilot through the form on www.ablute.pt.
ablute_ has not announced a launch date or price yet. Anyone interested can join the waiting list on www.ablute.pt.
ablute_ is a Portuguese company led by co-founders Nuno Marujo (CEO) and Carla Dias (CTO), with Bruno Nascimento (Chief Medical Officer) and Hugo Ferreira (Science Lead).
ablute_ takes part in, or has been recognised by, T-PRISM, PRR — Agenda HfPT (Health from Portugal), Rebuild and Innomed Catalyst. Carla Dias, co-founder and CTO, received the Women in Tech EU award.
Several companies work on urine analysis at home, including Withings with U-Scan, a device that clips into an existing toilet. ablute_ (Ablute), from Portugal, builds the biosensor into a complete smart toilet that also washes itself and saves water, using bioFET sensing technology.
www.ablute.pt has dedicated forms for investors, technology and industrial partners, and job applications.