UMass researchers block Down syndrome chromosome

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Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School have found a way to shut down the extra chromosome that causes the developmental problems and intellectual disabilities in people with Down syndrome.

The result was accomplished only with human cells grown in laboratory dishes. The UMass team found a way to suppress the expression of that extra chromosome, raising the possibility that eventually, a similar shutdown could be engineered in people.

[via Boston.com]

UMass Lacrosse Wins ’13 Season Opener

The Minutemen have started the 2013 regular season the way in which all of the 2012 regular season went — with a win.

A quick reminder; last year’s lacrosse squad was undefeated and ranked #1 in the nation, but was ultimately defeated in the opening round of the NCAA tourney.

On Sunday, at a snowy Garber, the UMass Minutemen put together a solid performance and came away with a win against Army.

Next up; the Tar Heels of UNC. The game will take place in Atlanta, actually. With another  win — it would be a huge way to open the season for UMass. The knock on the team last year was in regards to the “easier” schedule which the team enjoyed in 2012. A win against a perennially good team like the Tar Heels can’t hurt.

Hoops Gets Another Big Win — More Big Games On The Horizon

After a disappointing loss at Charlotte, the Minutemen have stepped up their game. First, the game URI a pounding to the tune of a 28-point defeat. Last night, the team continued their strong play against a more formidable St. Joe’s team. Saturday night’s game in front  of a large student section ended in a 22-point win for UMass.

I call the last two wins big only due to the margin of victory. The Minutemen should have won those games. Next up are two truly big games for the Minutemen — a Valentine’s Day night showdown at VCU and a home game against rival Temple on Saturday evening.

A huge shoutout to the students that packed the Mullins Center despite Saturday night’s snow. It’s clear that the team appreciates it. And this time they responded.

UMass Lax Nationally Ranked To Start Season

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UMass Lax To Begin Season Ranked Nationally

After making it all the way to #1 in the national in 2012, UMass is receiving high praise to start 2013. First the squad was ranked #9 by Inside Lacrosse’s coaches poll.

UMass men’s lacrosse received two additional preseason top-25 rankings today. The United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA) and Nike/Inside Lacrosse Media polls ranked the Minutemen 12th and 13th respectively

3-Star Prospect Antonio Harris Verbals To UMass

Rivals 3-star linemen Antonio Harris has committed to the Minutemen. Another big offensive linemen is just what the doctor ordered.

“I went up there this weekend and UMass. blew my mind,” Harris told the Washington Post. “Last year they had a rough year in their first year [in the Football Bowl Subdivision.] They need people, and I want to be part of what they’re building. I saw other people committing, and I figured I’d better hurry up.”

[via ESPN]

BC Fires Football Coach Frank Spaziani

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The Boston College Eagles won the same amount of games against 1A opponents as the UMass Minutemen in 2012. Things in Chestnut Hill are not exactly looking great. Now there head coach of four seasons is gone. If ever there was a chance for an upstart local program to gain ground — it’s now.

Boston College makes the trip down 95 to Gillette to open the 2014 season on August 30th.

So you are saying there’s a chance…