The present invention relates to the use of nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel in cell culture and medical applications. The invention relates to a composition comprising nanofibrillar cellulose, cross linkable polymer and at least one bioactive agent. The invention also provides methods for producing the composition and uses thereof. The present invention further relates to the use of said composition for manufacturing of a shaped matrix, the method of preparing said matrix, the matrix and the use of said matrix in various applications.