In ExÂME, we mainly use post-expansion labelling protocols, with a focus on the Ultrastructure Expansion Microscopy (U-ExM) method pioneered by the Guichard and Hamel Lab at the University of Geneva. This approach enlarges cells by about four times, increasing effective resolution while also improving antibody penetration and staining efficiency.

Our mission is to adapt and optimize U-ExM across the diversity of microbial eukaryotes. We are systematically testing fixation strategies (cryo-preservation and chemical fixations), enzymatic digestion, denaturation, and staining strategies to improve compatibility across challenging species. In parallel, we are screening antibodies and chemical dyes across key evolutionary groups, expanding the molecular toolkit for comparative cell biology.

Through this work, ExÂME aims to build a robust protocol base that makes Expansion Microscopy a reliable and accessible method across the breadth of the eukaryotic tree.