Hydrogels derived from natural polymers are promising scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering due to their biocompatibility and tunable properties. In this study, we developed and characterized hydrogels composed of marine-derived collagen reinforced with cotton-derived nanocellulose. Physicochemical analyses, including FTIR, XRD, and TEM, confirmed the structural integrity and nanometric dimensions of the constituents. Thermogravimetric and calorimetric studies revealed enhanced thermal stability with increasing nanocellulose content. Mechanical testing showed that the compressive modulus increased proportionally with nanocellulose concentration, indicating effective reinforcement. Swelling, water retention, and contact angle measurements demonstrated improved hydrophilicity and water uptake, which are critical for nutrient transport. Biological evaluation using chondrocytes indicated high cell viability (>90%) and proper adhesion over 14 days, confirming the cytocompatibility of the hydrogels. Collectively, these results highlight that marine collagen–cotton nanocellulose hydrogels exhibit a synergistic enhancement of structural, mechanical, and biological properties, making them promising candidates for cartilage repair applications. • Hydrogels based on marine collagen and reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals were prepared. • The mechanical response under confined compression is modulated by nanocellulose. • The hydrogels exhibited cytocompatibility with chondrocytes. • The system is relevant for focal cartilage lesion environments.
Núñez‐Tapia et al. (Fri,) studied this question.