Three types of cyclodextrin nanosponges were synthetized cross-linking α, β or γ cyclodextrin with carbonyldiimidazole as cross-linker. Nanosponges are solid nanoparticles previously used as drug carriers. In this studies cyclodextrin nanosponges were developed as oxygen delivery system. For this purpose the three types of nanosponges suspended in water were saturated with oxygen and in vitro characterized. The nanosponge safety was tested on Vero cells. Their ability to release oxygen in the presence and in the absence of ultrasound (US) was determined over time. Oxygen permeation through a silicone membrane was obtained using a β-cyclodextrin nanosponge/hydrogel combination system. Nanosponge formulations might be potential gas delivery systems showing the ability to store and to release oxygen slowly over time. © 2010 Elsevier B.V.