Promoting retinal ganglion cell regeneration with targeted liposome-based delivery of MHY1485 for optic nerve repair

Optic neuropathy, characterized by the irreversible degeneration of RGCs, leads to vision loss for which treatment options remained limited. Nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies have been developed to stimulate RGCs regeneration; however, insufficient nanoparticles delivery to RGCs and a lack of robust stimulation of RGCs intrinsic regenerative capacity, have limited their application. Here, we demonstrate that a RGC-targeting Tet1 conjugated to liposome delivery system (Lipo-T) enhances therapeutic agent delivery to RGCs while minimizing off-target effect for activating glial cells. Targeted delivery of a mTOR-specific activator MHY1485 to RGCs via Lipo-T (MHY@Lipo-T) significantly enhances in vivo RGCs survival, neurite outgrowth, and axonal regeneration without retinal inflammation from unwanted glial activation. By conferring sustained MHY1485 to degenerated retina through Lipo-T injection, and with its high target ability potential, the first use of MHY@Lipo-T expands new therapeutic option for optic nerve injury.