Effect of small addition of C60 fullerenes on the hydrated properties of nanocomposites based on highly dispersed silica and DNA

► Nanocomposites based on highly dispersed silica and DNA were modified with small amounts of C60 fullerenes. ► Small amount of fullerenes, settled down on the surface of the nanocomposite, leads to significant modifications in the structure of adsorbed water clusters. ► The radius of the associated water clusters varies and the interphase energy of the nanocomposite-water system changed. ► Composite systems based on DNA can serve as sensitive sensor for biologically active substances.