Growth factors stimulate expression of neuronal and glial miR-132

► We examined the effect of five growth factors on miR-132 expression and synaptic protein levels. ► BDNF and bFGF upregulated levels of miR-132 in cortical cultures. ► BDNF, but not bFGF, increased expression of glutamate receptors. ► Only bFGF significantly upregulated miR-132 in cultured astroglial cells. ► Growth factor-induced miR-132 plays a different role in neurons and astrocytes.