# Remodeling the Inflammatory Microenvironment: Nanomaterial‐Based Targeted Strategies for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how nanomaterials can improve lupus treatment by targeting immune cells and kidneys, reducing side effects and boosting drug effectiveness.

## Contribution

The paper introduces smart nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery in lupus, combining materials science and immunology for better therapies.

## Key findings

- Nanomaterials like liposomes and biomimetic carriers enable precise drug delivery to immune and kidney cells.
- Tailored nanoplatforms reduce off-target effects and support combination therapies for lupus nephritis.
- The review highlights challenges and future directions for translating nanotherapeutics into clinical practice.

## Abstract

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disorder, with Lupus Nephritis (LN) representing a severe complication that affects a significant proportion of patients. Current treatments, including corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, are limited by systemic toxicity and nonspecific biodistribution. Nanomaterial‐based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these challenges by improving drug solubility, facilitating targeted delivery, and reducing off‐target effects. This review comprehensively discusses the rational design and application of advanced nanomaterials—such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and biomimetic nanocarriers—in the context of SLE/LN therapy. It highlights how tailored nanoplatforms can selectively target key immune cells (e.g., T cells, B cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells) and renal parenchymal cells, support combination therapy, and improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing off‐target effects. Furthermore, the review critically examines current challenges and future prospects for clinical translation, advocating for smarter nano‐therapeutics capable of integrating immune modulation and organ‐specific targeting. This work aims to bridge materials design and immunology, providing insights into next‐generation treatments for SLE/LN diseases.

Current treatments for severe lupus nephritis are limited by side effects due to poor drug targeting. This review explores how smart nanomaterials—like liposomes and biomimetic carriers—can precisely deliver drugs to overactive immune cells and the kidneys. These nanotherapeutics enhance efficacy, reduce toxicity, and enable combination strategies. The discussion bridges materials science and immunology to outline a promising path toward next‐generation, targeted therapies.© 2026 WILEY‐VCH GmbH