DNA-targeted nanocarriers for encapsulating an active agent and delivering it to extracellular DNA are provided. The nanocarriers, for example, polymeric particles, liposomes, and multilamellar vesicles have targeting moiety that targets DNA conjugated thereto. The targeting moiety that targets DNA is typically an antibody, or variant, fragment, or fusion protein derived therefrom that binds to DNA or nucleosomes. The targeting moiety can be a circulating autoantibody that binds DNA such as those commonly found in patients with SLE. In some embodiments, the targeting moiety is antibody 3E10 or a variant, fragment, or fusion protein derived therefrom. Pharmaceutical compositions, methods of use, and dosage regimens are also provided.