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— The Iceland-based DeCode Genetics announced that it will be restructuring to form a private company focused solely on research. DeCode, well known for uncovering genetic links to cancer, schizophrenia, and other diseases, filed for bankruptcy last November. (NYTimes)

— Kids are growing up too quickly these days: One in five US teens ages 12 to 19 have unhealthy cholesterol levels, according to research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even among those with normal body weight, 14% had high cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease. (Reuters)

— Researchers and patients involved with Eurordis are establishing a Network of European Rare Disease Federations. Rather than organizing by country, like the Council of National Alliances, the new network will be organized by disease and work on influencing policy and connecting those in the rare disease field. (The Scientist)

— Adults in the UK need more sun—or at least more Vitamin D—according to a clinical review. Over 50% of the UK adult population is deficient in this vitamin, with 16% severely deficient during winter and spring months, leading to a resurgence of the bone disease rickets. The researchers blame people spending too much time indoors and, perhaps surprisingly, using too much sunscreen. (Guardian) Read more about vitamin D’s effect on cancer and multiple sclerosis in our feature, The Sunshine Cure, from our archives.

Image by markhillary via Flickr Creative Commons