Objective To investigate the effect of miR-15b and miR-16 on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein in human embryonic lung fibroblast (HLF) cells under hyperoxia.Methods The expression level of miR-15b and miR-16 was up-regulated and down-regulated in HLF cells by transfection technology, respectively.The expression of VEGF protein in HLF cells was assessed by Western blot.Furthermore, under hyperoxia exposure in vitro, the expression of miR-15b, miR-16 and VEGF protein in HLF cells was analyzed.Results Up-regulation of miR-15b and miR-16 suppressed VEGF protein expression, while down-regulated miR-15b and miR-16 promoted VEGF protein expression.In addition, hyperoxia exposure induced up-regulation of miR-15b and miR-16, but down-regulation of VEGF protein in HLF cells.Conclusions Hyperoxia exposure may up-regulate the expression level of miR-15b and miR-16, but suppress VEGF protein expression.These may contribute to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.