Matrix Models, gauge theory, and gravity

Full text: Matrix Models, such as the IKKT model, have been introduced previously as a non-perturbative description of string theory. We show how space-time with generic 4-dimensional geometry can emerge as brane solution of the model, along with all required gravitational and gauge theory degrees of freedom. This provides a powerful approach towards a quantum theory of all fundamental interactions, which shares the main features of string theory within a predictive framework. Some aspects of the effective low-energy geometry and gauge theory are discussed. (author)