Objective To investigate the expression and effect of MicroRNA-92a on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods The expression of MicroRNA-92a in PDAC was detected by qRT-PCR. MicroRNA-92a inhibitory lentivirus was utilized for establishment of MicroRNA-92a knockdown model in PANC-1 cells. Clone formation assay and flow cytometry were performed for cell proliferation and apoptosis. A subcutaneous xenotransplanted tumor model was conducted to investigate the effect of MicroRNA-92a on tumor growth in vivo. Expression of DAB2IP and MicroRNA-92a in mice tumor tissues were identified by Western blots or immunohistochemical (IHC). Results MicroRNA-92a was up-regulated in PDAC tissues (P < 0.05). Knockdown of MicroRNA-92a suppressed cellular proliferation (P < 0.05) while enhanced apoptosis rate (t =5.840, P = 0.029) in PANC-1 cells. Down-regulation of MicroRNA-92a inhibited in vivo tumor growth (P < 0.05). Moreover, deletion of MicroRNA-92a induced increased expression of DAB2IP in vitro (P < 0.05) and in vivo (P < 0.05). Conclusions MicroRNA-92a facilitates PDAC tumor growth probably through activating DAB2IP.