http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl...-cell-research-obama

"Embryonic stem cells are prized in medical research because they can develop into any kind of tissue.

Medical researchers hope to use the cells to find cures for conditions such as juvenile diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and spinal cord injuries."

(Link goes to entire article)

Technically, there has never been a ban in the US on embryonic stem cell research. Bush's ban was on use of federal funds for this research. The research has been ongoing using private funding.