T lymphocyte costimulation mediated by reorganization of membrane microdomains

Although dispensable, costimulation through CD28 facilitates activation of naive T lymphocytes. CD28 engagement Led to the redistribution and clusteri ng of membrane and intracellular kinase-rich raft microdomains at the site of T cell receptor (TCR) engagements. Although not affecting TCR down-regul ation, this process Led to higher and more stable tyrosine phosphorylation of several substrates and higher consumption of Lck. These results may prov ide a general mechanism for amplifying receptor signaling by reorganization of membrane microdomains.