Choose the correct set of statements/reactions with regard to C₄ cycle of photosynthesis:
(1) Decarboxylation of C₄-acids occurs in the bundle sheath of leaves.
(2) Transfer of C₄-acids into bundle sheath is apoplastic.
(3) Oxaloacetic acid + NADP⁺ ⟶ Malate + NADPH (enzyme: malate dehydrogenase).
(4) CO₂ fixation in mesophyll during C₄ cycle is mediated by the enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase.
Choose the correct answer from the codes given below:

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (a)
Explanation:
In C₄ plants, C₄ acids (malate/aspartate) are decarboxylated in bundle-sheath cells (1), and the initial CO₂ fixation in mesophyll is catalyzed by PEP carboxylase (4).
Movement between mesophyll and bundle sheath is symplastic via plasmodesmata, not apoplastic (2 false).
The malate dehydrogenase reaction uses NADPH → NADP⁺ (OAA + NADPH ⟶ malate + NADP⁺), not the reverse written (3 false).
Information Booster:
Mesophyll: PEP + CO₂ (as HCO₃⁻) —PEP carboxylase→ OAA.
OAA → malate/aspartate → transported to bundle sheath.
Bundle sheath decarboxylates C₄ acids; released CO₂ enters the Calvin cycle.
Kranz anatomy ensures spatial separation of steps.
Symplastic transport maintains metabolite flow between cell types.
Additional Information (Why others are wrong):
(b) (2)&(3) are both incorrect; (c) includes incorrect (3); (d) includes incorrect (2).