Worldwide genetic variations in high-risk human papillomaviruses capsid L1 gene and their impact on vaccine efficiency

•Substitutions in HPV L1 protein surface may alter the activity of neutralizing Abs.•Data on genetic variability of HPV major capsid L1 gene is still limited.•Many NS mutations in HPV L1 protein were located in immunodominant loop structures.•Some mutations may alter the immunodominant epitopes and the MAbs binding affinity.•Distribution of HPV L1 protein variants differs according to geographical origins.