What type of reaction occurs when Malic acid is converted into Pyruvic acid in the bundle sheath cells of `C_4` plants

Options

A. Decarboxylation
B. Dehydrogenation
C. Oxidative decarboxylation
D. Transamination

Answer

To determine the type of reaction that occurs when malic acid is converted into pyruvic acid in the bundle sheath cells of C4 plants, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Context**:
- In C4 plants, the process of photosynthesis involves two types of cells: mesophyll cells and bundle sheath cells. Malic acid is produced in the mesophyll cells and transported to the bundle sheath cells.

2. **Identify the Reaction**:
- The conversion of malic acid to pyruvic acid involves the removal of a carboxyl group (CO2) from malic acid, which is a key feature of decarboxylation reactions.

3. **Determine the Type of Reaction**:
- The conversion of malic acid to pyruvic acid is not just a simple decarboxylation; it also involves the oxidation of malic acid. This means that electrons are transferred during the reaction, indicating that it is an oxidative process.

4. **Select the Correct Option**:
- Among the options provided (decarboxylation, dehydrogenation, oxidative decarboxylation, and transamination), the reaction is best described as **oxidative decarboxylation**. This is because it involves both the removal of carbon dioxide and the oxidation of the substrate.

5. **Final Answer**:
- Therefore, the correct answer is **oxidative decarboxylation**.