Interpolation and transfer-function realization for the noncommutative Schur-Agler class (Q1728889)

The authors are concerned with the classical Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation in the setting of free noncommutative function theory. The classical Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation theorem is related with the transfer function realizations of bounded analytic functions on the open unit disc \(\mathbb{D}\) in the complex plane and Sarason's commutant lifting theorem in the setting of the Hardy space over \(\mathbb{D}\). The several complex variables analogue of bounded analytic functions on \(\mathbb{D}\) is the well-known Schur-Agler class of functions. From the Schur-Agler class of functions point of view, an appropriate version of the Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation theorem, in the setting of the bidisc and the open unit ball, has been developed by \textit{J. Agler} and \textit{J. E. McCarthy} [J. Reine Angew. Math. 506, 191--204 (1999; Zbl 0919.32003)] and \textit{J. A. Ball} et al. [in: Operator theory and analysis. The M. A. Kaashoek anniversary volume. Proceedings of the workshop, Amsterdam, Netherlands, November 12--14, 1997. Basel: Birkhäuser. 89--138 (2001; Zbl 0983.47011)], respectively. On the other hand, the noncommutative Schur-Agler class has been introduced and then completely classified in terms of transfer function realizations by \textit{J. A. Ball} et al. [Oper. Theory: Adv. Appl. 161, 179--223 (2006; Zbl 1110.47066)]. With this, along with [\textit{D. Alpay} and \textit{D. S. Kaliuzhnyi-Verbovetzkyi}, Oper. Theory: Adv. Appl. 161, 49--113 (2006; Zbl 1110.47008)] as motivation, the authors develop Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation and transfer function realization theory for the Schur-Agler class in the setting of free noncommutative function theory. We also refer to [\textit{J. Agler} and \textit{J. E. McCarthy}, Can. J. Math. 67, No. 2, 241--285 (2015; Zbl 1311.32001); Am. J. Math. 137, No. 6, 1685--1701 (2015; Zbl 1333.32011)] for related and relevant results. The paper should be 5relevant to anyone interested in noncommutative function theory. Operator theorists interested in the connections with noncommutative function theory will also find the paper useful. For the entire collection see [Zbl 1392.45001].