Methods to reduce damage to organelles, cells, tissues, organs and organ systems or components thereof caused by strain due to mechanical stress, including stretch stress and shear stress, are provided. The methods involve treating the organelles, cells, tissues, organs, and organs systems or components thereof (such as veins used for grafts in bypass surgery) with PX-18 and related compounds. Treatment with PX-18 and related compounds reduces damage due to stress and improves the functioning of the cells, tissues, organs or organs systems or components thereof. For example, the methods prevent the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque in transplanted (grafted) veins after coronary bypass surgery.
