Non-Critical Superstrings from Four-Dimensional Gauge Theory

Abstract

We study large-N double-scaling limits of U(N) gauge theories in four dimensions. We focus on theories in a partially confining phase where an abelian subgroup $\hat{G}$ of the gauge group remains unconfined. Double-scaling is defined near critical points in the parameter/moduli space where states charged under $\hat{G}$ become massless. In specific cases, we present evidence that the double-scaled theory is dual to a non-critical superstring background. Models studied include the $\beta$-deformation of $\mathcal{N}=4$ SUSY Yang-Mills which leads to a non-critical string theory with sixteen supercharges. We also study $\mathcal{N}=1$ SUSY Yang-Mills theory coupled to a single chiral superfield with a polynomial superpotential which leads to a related string theory with eight supercharges. In both cases the string coupling is small and the background is free from Ramond-Ramond flux.

75 pages, 5 figures

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• Non-Critical String Duals of N=1 Quiver Theories
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• Double Scaling Limits in Gauge Theories and Matrix Models
• Spectral function and quark diffusion constant in non-critical holographic QCD
• Double Scaling Limits and Twisted Non-Critical Superstrings