Self-dual Strings and 2D SYM

TL;DR

This paper investigates the dynamics of M2-branes between M5-branes using the ABJM model, revealing a 2D super Yang-Mills theory with unique features and comparing it to other M-string descriptions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel boundary condition in the ABJM model leading to a 2D N=(4,4) super Yang-Mills theory, highlighting differences from existing M-string models.

Findings

Reduction to 2D super Yang-Mills for small M5-brane separation

Gauge coupling related to brane positions

Partial agreement in elliptic genus comparison

Abstract

We study the system of M2-branes suspended between parallel M5-branes using ABJM model with a natural half-BPS boundary condition. For small separation between M5-branes, the worldvolume theory is shown to reduce to a 2D N=(4,4) super Yang-Mills theory with some similarity to q-deformed Yang-Mills theory. The gauge coupling is related to the position of the branes in an interesting manner. The theory is considerably different from the 2D theory proposed for multiple "M-strings". We make a detailed comparison of elliptic genus of the two descriptions and find only a partial agreement.