J-inner matrix functions, interpolation and inverse problems for canonical systems, I: Foundations

This is the first of a planned sequence of papers on inverse problems for canonical systems of differential equations. It is devoted largely to foundational material (much of which is of independent interest) on the theory of assorted classes of meromorphic matrix valued functions. Particular attention is paid to the structure of J-inner functions and connections with bitangential interpolation problems and reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces. Some new characterizations of regular, singular and strongly regular J-inner functions in terms of the associated reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces are presented.D. Z. Arov wishes to thank the Weizmann Institute of Science for hospitality and support; H. Dym wishes to thank Renee and Jay Weiss for endowing the chair which supports his research.