Michael J. Fox commends Obama for lifting stem cell ban

London, Mar 10 (ANI): Hollywood actor Michael J. Fox has applauded American president Barack Obama for taking a wise decision of lifting the ban from stem-cell research.

Fox, who has been battling the Parkinson's disease since 1998, is a strong advocate of embryonic stem cell studies and its research.

The 'Frightener' actor founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000, which has since become the largest private funder of stem cell Parkinson's research in America.

Fox has given a nod to Obama, who will sign an executive order lifting limits placed by the administration of former President George W. Bush, who blocked the use of any government money to fund research on human embryonic stem cell lines created after 9 August 2001.

"Today is a new day. I'm thrilled to see President Obama has honoured his commitment to get politics out of science. The last few years have been incredibly frustrating for patents and researchers who believe that embryonic stem cell research has the potential to bring better treatment... to many of the patients.

I commend the President for recognising the inherent value of research freedom and creating an environment in which it can flourish," The Daily Star quoted Fox, as stating. (ANI)