Abstract: The backbone, hydrophobic side chain, and responsive type of the amphiphilic cellulose copolymers that form cellulose self-assembly nanoparticles (CSANPs) were summarized. The particle size, morphology and structure of CSANPs under different conditions were introduced, too. Owing to the intelligent responses, CSANPs have important applications in the areas of intelligent materials and biomedicine, especially in drug carrier and controlled release. Biodegradable CSANPs with controllable morphology and intelligent responses (light, magnetism, pH, temperature, biology, etc.) are becoming the research hotspot in the field of cellulose materials.