Stem cell research holds enormous potential for fighting and perhaps even curing many of the most common and debilitating diseases known to mankind. Diseases and conditions including heart disease, stroke, arthritis, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson's disease, cancer through bone marrow transplants, additional cancer treatments, viral infection treatments and even slowing the body's aging process. As of the time of this writing ASTM, GERN, KOOL, NEXL and STEM may be the most focused on Stem Cell development of the stocks on this list. GERN appears to have the best patent position.

The list has been expanded to include a number of companies that are using Stem Cell technology in various types of cell therapies and tissue engineering. We believe that profitability is likely years away for most of the companies on this list. However Stem Cells can potentially be directed to grow into any kind of cell or tissue type. Progress and enormous potential will keep these investors focused on these volatile stocks. Even President Bush's recent decision, which many believe did not go far enough, will not fully stem the tide of progress for most of the companies on this list. You may be interested in our broader Biotech List.