The SIGMAR1 gene is associated with a risk of schizophrenia and activation of the prefrontal cortex

► The Gln2Pro in SIGMAR1 gene was associated with a risk of Japanese schizophrenia. ► The Pro frequency was higher in patients with schizophrenia than in controls. ► The Gln2Pro was associated with activation of the PFC during VFT measured by NIRS. ► Pro carriers had a lower activation of the right PFC than subjects with Gln/Gln.