Lymph node targeting of cyclosporine ameliorates ocular manifestations in a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) via PD-L1

One-third of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients experience various degrees of ocular manifestations, with immunosuppressants recommended as a treatment option. Targeted immune suppression via oral administration is challenging due to the harsh gastrointestinal tract environment combined with complex physiological barriers. Here, we report the efficacy of orally administered cyclosporine (CsA)-laden polymer nanoparticles decorated with the ligand - Gambogic Acid (P2Ns-GA-CsA) in sustained lymph node delivery. This is the first report demonstrating the CD71 specificity of P2Ns-GA-CsA in the CD71 knockout mouse model and the influence of spacer length in achieving target tissue bioavailability in a lupus mouse model. P2Ns-GA-CsA effectively regulates T-cell chemotaxis by PD-L1 at a 50 % lower dose compared to conventional CsA in a mouse model exhibiting lupus-associated corneal inflammation. Collectively, these results suggest the possibility for further development of P2Ns-GA to target a diverse range of lymphatic disorders.