Aims: diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic diseases worldwide characterized by insulin resistance and pancreatic beta cell dysfunction. miRNA plays an important role in DM. In previous studies, miRNA-92a could function as targets for innovative precision medicines to reduce T1D islet autoimmunity. However, the relationship between miRNA-92a and pancreatic beta cell dysfunction remains unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of miRNA-92a in pancreatic beta cell dysfunction. Methods: Apoptosis, proliferation, insulin secretion and cell survival rate were detected to evaluate the function of miRNA-92a. Results: we found that miRNA-92a could inhibit apoptosis induced by high-glucose environment and increase the insulin secretion and proliferation. Moreover, we identify the KLF2 as direct target of miRNA-92a, suggesting that miRNA-92a may function through regulating KLF2. Conclusion: Altogether, we verified the function and mechanism of miRNA-92a and provide evidence that miRNA-92a may serve a potential candidate for the clinical treatment for DM. (C) 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc.