Self-assembled sorbitol-derived supramolecular hydrogels for the controlled encapsulation and release of active pharmaceutical ingredients

A simple supramolecular hydrogel based on 1,3:2,4-di(4-acylhydrazide)benzylidene sorbitol (DBS-CONHNH2), is able to-extract acid-functionalised anti-inflammatory drugs via directed interactions with the self-assembled gel nanofibres. Two-component hydrogel-drug hybrid materials can be easily formed by mixing and exhibit pH-controlled drug release.