PPARβ/δ is the dominant subtype expressed in the primary cultured astrocytes. PPARβ/δ activation protects against corticosterone-induced astrocyte damage. PPARβ/δ activation protects against ER stress-induced apoptosis of astrocytes. PPARβ/δ activation up-regulates miR-181a levels in astrocytes. PPARβ/δ activation inhibits Dnmts and decreases CpG island methylation of MiR-181a1.