Fibrate treatment induced quantitative and qualitative HDL changes associated with an increase of SR-BI cholesterol efflux capacities in rabbits

► We examined the effects of fenofibrate in HDL metabolism in rabbits. ► Fenofibrate caused an important increase in HDL-cholesterol and phospholipids. ► These HDL were larger, relatively enriched in cholesteryl ester, phosphatidylinositol and sphingomyelin. ► HDL from fibrate treated rabbits exhibited higher SR-BI cholesterol efflux capacities. ► These effects of fenofibrate might contribute to its benefits on atherosclerosis.