Glycolate cycle is also known as photorespiration that takes place in C3  plants and occurs in chloroplasts, mitochondria and peroxisomes of plant cells. This pathway is involved in the formation of amino acids glycine and serine from non-phosphorylated intermediates of carbon reduction cycle of photosynthesis. Glycolate is the chief metabolite of photorespiration.
Thus, the correct answer is option A.

Peroxisomes in Plant Photosynthesis

Peroxisomes are small organelles found in plant cells that play a vital role in various metabolic pathways, including plant photosynthesis. In particular, peroxisomes are involved in the glycolate cycle, which is a crucial pathway for the metabolism of photorespiratory intermediates in plants.

Glycolate Cycle

The glycolate cycle is also known as the photorespiratory pathway, which occurs in the chloroplasts, mitochondria, and peroxisomes of plant cells. This cycle is necessary to prevent the accumulation of toxic metabolites that are formed during photosynthesis. In this cycle, peroxisomes play a critical role in metabolizing glycolate, a toxic byproduct of photosynthesis.

Steps Involved

1. The first step of the glycolate cycle involves the conversion of glycolate to glyoxylate, which occurs in the chloroplasts of the plant cell.

2. The glyoxylate is then transported to the peroxisomes, where it is metabolized to form glycine.

3. The glycine is then transported to the mitochondria, where it is converted to serine, which is then transported back to the chloroplasts.

4. In the chloroplasts, the serine is converted to 3-phosphoglycerate, which can be used in the Calvin cycle for the production of glucose.

Importance

The glycolate cycle is essential for the survival of plants, as it allows them to efficiently use CO2 for photosynthesis. Without this cycle, glycolate would accumulate in the plant cells, leading to toxicity and reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

Conclusion

In summary, peroxisomes are involved in the glycolate cycle, which is a crucial metabolic pathway for plants to metabolize toxic intermediates produced during photosynthesis. The glycolate cycle helps plants to efficiently use CO2 for photosynthesis, and peroxisomes play a vital role in this pathway.