The present invention provides compounds useful, for example, for modulating insulin levels in a subject and that have the general formula Q--L.sup.1--P--L.sup.2--M--X--L.sup.3--A wherein the definitions of the variables Q, L.sup.1, P, L.sup.2, M, X, L.sup.3 and A are provided herein. The present invention also provides compositions and methods for use of the compounds, for instance, for treatment of type II diabetes.