Comments on the Bagger-Lambert theory and multiple M2-branes

Abstract

We study the SO(8) superconformal theory proposed recently by Bagger and Lambert as a possible worldvolume theory for multiple M2-branes. For their explicit example with gauge group SO(4), we rewrite the theory (originally formulated in terms of a three-algebra) as an ordinary SU(2) × SU(2) gauge theory with bifundamental matter. In this description, the parity invariance of the theory, required for a proper description of M2-branes, is clarified. We describe the subspace of scalar field configurations on which the potential vanishes, correcting an earlier claim. Finally, we point out, for general three-algebras, a difficulty in constructing the required set of superconformal primary operators which should be present in the correct theory describing multiple M2-branes.