Singleton Strings

TL;DR

This paper explores singleton representations and subcritical WZW models in AdS space, proposing a new framework for tensionless branes and higher-spin symmetries with potential implications for fundamental string theory.

Contribution

It introduces subcritical SO(D-1,2) WZW models with singleton fields as a novel approach to tensionless branes and higher-spin gauge theories in AdS space.

Findings

Singleton representations are relevant for tensionless branes.

Subcritical WZW models feature singleton primary fields.

Models serve as candidates for a partonic description of tensionless branes.

Abstract

In this note, we briefly introduce singleton representations and discuss their relevance to the study of string and brane configurations in AdS space, their tensionless limit and the connection with higher-spin gauge theory. We then discuss the main properties of subcritical SO(D-1,2) WZW models featuring singletons and their composites as primary fields. After a suitable gauging, these models are good candidates for a fundamental, partonic description of tensionless branes in AdS. Their massless sector provides an affine Lie-algebraic setting for the study of higher-spin symmetries. Based on hep-th/0508124, hep-th/0701051 and work in progress.