Abstract: The present invention provides methods of promoting arteriogenesis in a subject. Embodiments include methods comprising: administering an effective dose of tocotrienol to the subject; causing an increase in Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase Metallopeptidase Inhibitor 1 (TIMP1) in vessels of cerebrovascular collateral circulation in the subject; attenuating the activity of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2); thereby promoting arteriogenesis.

Abstract: An agent for treating strokes in humans is tested in a non-human subject by selecting an agent for testing and by preparing a selected non-human subject. The preparation includes: inducing a stroke event by advancing a microwire through the arterial system of the subject to a selected intracranial target position, inserting a microcatheter along the microwire and delivering an embolic device to the target position, occluding the artery at the target position by deploying the embolic device, verifying the occlusion and repositioning the embolic device if needed. After a predetermined occlusion interval, reperfusion of the subject is simulated by removing the embolic device and commencing therapy with the selected agent. At appropriate intervals, the effect of the conducted course of therapy is assessed non-invasively until terminal evaluation. In particular aspects, the method involves occluding the middle cerebral artery through an access achieved via the basilar artery.