Synthesis of chitosan networks: Swelling, drug release, and magnetically assisted BSA separation using Fe3O4 nanoparticles

► Chitosan (CS) nanohydrogels were prepared in an emulsion system using GDE and PDMS. ► The swelling behavior of nanohydrogels showed dependence on several factors. ► The nanohydrogels were tested for drug loading and releasing efficiency. ► The immobilized BSA and nano-magnetic Fe3O4 into hydrogels were tested for magnetically assisted bioseparation.