Macroporous bead cellulose is an excellent matrix for sophisticated applications in many diverse areas including analytical chemistry, enzyme engineering or biotechnology, where its hydrophilic nature, high porosity and mechanical as well as chemical resistance are exploited. A new family of the cellulose-based sorbents developed in cooperation with the IONTOSORB Comp. exhibits some unusual capabilities, such as an enhanced selectivity towards some metal cations (heavy metals, lanthanides) or an ability to destroy highly toxic organophosphate compounds.