Synthesis and characterization of some cellulose/chondroitin sulphate hydrogels and their evaluation as carriers for drug delivery

► Mixed hydrogels based on natural, biodegradable and biocompatible polysaccharides, such as cellulose (C) and chondroitin sulphate (CS) in various mixing ratios were prepared and tested as carriers for novel NO-donor compounds. ► The swelling and release behaviour can be controlled by C/CS composition and morphology. ► The 7-[2-nitroxiacetyl-oxy-3-(4-acetyl-amino-phenoxy)-propyl]-8-morpholino-1,3-dimethyl-xanthine nitric oxide donor compound release is significantly prolonged from hydrogels containing a high content of chondroitin sulphate.