ERK activation by G-protein-coupled receptors in mouse brain is receptor identity-specific.

In transfected cells and non-neuronal tissues many G-protein-coupled receptors activate p44/42 MAP kinase (ERK), a kinase involved in both hippocampal synaptic plasticity and learning and memory. However, it is not clear to what degree these receptors couple to ERK in brain. G(s)-coupled beta-adrenergic receptor activation of ERK in neurons is critical in the regulation of synaptic plasticity in area CA1 of the hippocampus.