Dynamical mass matrices from moduli fields

Abstract

We review recent work on the structure of the fermion mass matrices in supergravity effective superstrings. They are generally given at low energy by non-trivial functions of the gauge singlet moduli fields. Interesting structures appear in particular if they are homogeneous functions of zero degree in the moduli. In this case we find Yukawa matrices very similar to the ones obtained by imposing a $U(1)$ family symmetry to reproduce the observed hierarchy of masses and mixing angles. The role of the $U(1)$ symmetry is played here by the modular symmetry. The Flavor Changing Neutral Currents effects at the Planck scale coming from the soft terms are identically zero. A dynamical scenario is discussed which allow to generate the observed hierarchies.