Dermatan sulfate is a type of glycosaminoglycan, which is a long chain of sugar molecules. It is found in various tissues throughout the body, particularly in the skin, blood vessels, and heart valves. Dermatan sulfate plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of these tissues and is involved in cell signaling and wound healing. This molecule is synthesized by cells and is important for the proper functioning of the extracellular matrix, which provides support to cells. Abnormal levels of dermatan sulfate can be associated with certain diseases, including Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affect connective tissue.