Institute of Biochemistry and Genetics, Ufa Federal Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences | Russia
Dr. Dilara Maslennikova is a distinguished researcher in plant physiology and molecular biology, with a strong focus on understanding the mechanisms of plant adaptation to environmental stressors. Her work primarily investigates the molecular pathways through which plant growth regulators, such as nitric oxide (NO) and salicylic acid (SA), influence the physiological and biochemical responses of wheat plants under salinity, drought, and heavy metal stress conditions. Over the years, she has significantly contributed to the advancement of plant science by elucidating the roles of antioxidant systems, phenylpropanoid pathways, and plant-microbial interactions in enhancing stress tolerance and improving crop yield. As an associate professor at the School of Molecular Technologies, she also mentors young scientists, fostering innovative research in plant physiology and biochemistry.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Maslennikova completed her academic training at Bashkir State University, Ufa, where she built a strong foundation in plant sciences. Her doctoral research focused on the “Pro and antioxidant system in the manifestation of the protective effect of salicylic acid on wheat plants to salinity,” laying the groundwork for her later work on molecular stress physiology in plants. This academic background has enabled her to explore the interplay of phytohormones, antioxidants, and plant stress responses at a mechanistic level.
Professional Experience
With over two decades of research experience, Dr. Maslennikova has worked extensively on the molecular mechanisms of wheat plant responses to plant growth regulators and stress factors. Beginning as a research intern and junior research fellow, she advanced her career to become a leading researcher and academic in the field of plant molecular physiology. Her professional journey encompasses significant contributions to understanding the regulation of antioxidant systems, the ascorbate-glutathione complex, and phenylpropanoid pathways, as well as their role in plant stress adaptation. She has also actively contributed to plant-microbial interaction research, exploring the effects of endophytic bacteria and rhizobia strains in mitigating abiotic stress in wheat.
Research Interests
Dr. Maslennikova’s research interests include plant stress physiology, redox metabolism, nitric oxide signaling, salicylic acid-mediated stress responses, and the functional role of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). Her investigations focus on improving crop resilience and productivity under challenging environmental conditions by elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of growth regulators, antioxidants, and plant-microbial interactions. She is particularly interested in the long-term effects of exogenous treatments, such as sodium nitroprusside and salicylic acid, on plant growth, essential amino acid content, and yield.
Awards and Achievements
Dr. Maslennikova has been widely recognized for her scientific contributions through numerous high-impact publications in leading journals such as Plants, Life, Microorganisms, and the Russian Journal of Plant Physiology. Her work has been acknowledged within the scientific community for its novelty, including the discovery of nitric oxide’s role in regulating phenylpropanoid pathways, lignin content, and stress-related gene expression in wheat under salinity. She has also contributed to the understanding of prolonged protective and growth-stimulating effects of plant treatments, significantly expanding knowledge in crop science and sustainable agriculture.
Publications
Ibuprofen Regulates Redox Metabolism and Nitric Oxide Content in Early Growth Stages of Wheat Plants” in Russian Journal of Plant Physiology, 2025
The Role of Antioxidant System Components in the Effect of Ibuprofen on Wheat Plants” in Russian Journal of Plant Physiology, 2025.
Conclusion
Dr. Dilara Maslennikova stands out as a leading scientist in the field of plant molecular physiology, combining extensive research expertise with active engagement in education and academic mentorship. Her work not only advances theoretical understanding but also has practical implications for improving wheat productivity and resilience under stress conditions. Through her roles in scientific societies, editorial review, and international conferences, she actively contributes to the growth and dissemination of plant science knowledge. Her achievements reflect a commitment to innovative research, sustainable agricultural practices, and the cultivation of future generations of plant physiologists.