Selenium/tellurium containing polymers have been attracting growing interest due to their unique properties and potential applications as bio-nanomaterials. The introduction of selenium or tellurium chemistry into block copolymers endows self-assembled nanomaterials with novel stimuli responsiveness and enhanced sensitivity. This review article provides an overview on recent advances of selenium/tellurium containing polymers. We summarize the redox response and reversible self-assembly behaviors, gamma-ray responsive systems for combined chemo- and radio-therapies, and coordination-responsive systems for controlled delivery are highlighted. The review then reveals how selenium-containing polymers can modulate reactive oxygen species and work as gene delivery vehicles or self-delivery therapeutics. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.