Abstract: We investigate a gauge extension of the Standard Model in light of the observed hints of lepton universality violation in b -> clv and b -> sl(+) l(-) decays at BaBar, Belle and LHCb. The model consists of an extended gauge group SU(2)(1) x SU(2)(2) x U(l)(Y) which breaks spontaneously around the TeV scale to the electroweak gauge group. Fermion mixing effects with vector -like fermions give rise to potentially large new physics contributions in flavour transitions mediated by WI and Z' bosons. This model can ease tensions in B -physics data while satisfying stringent bounds from flavour physics, and electroweak precision data. Possible ways to test the proposed new physics scenario with upcoming experimental measurements are discussed. Among other predictions, the ratios RM =Gamma(B -> M mu(+)mu(-))/Gamma(B -> Me(+)e(-)), with M = K*, phi, are found to be reduced with respect to the Standard Model expectation R-M similar or equal to 1.

Abstract: We define a new class of Z' models with neutral flavor-changing interactions at tree level in the down-quark sector. They are related in an exact way to elements of the quark mixing matrix due to an underlying flavored U(1)' gauge symmetry, rendering these models particularly predictive. The same symmetry implies lepton-flavor nonuniversal couplings, fully determined by the gauge structure of the model. Our models allow us to address presently observed deviations from the standard model and specific correlations among the new physics contributions to the Wilson coefficients C-9, 10((')l) can be tested in b -> sl(+)l(-) transitions. We furthermore predict lepton-universality violations in Z' decays, testable at the LHC.

Abstract: We build a class of invisible axion models with tree-level Flavor Changing Neutral Currents completely controlled by the fermion mixing matrices. The scalar sector of these models contains three-Higgs doublets and a complex scalar gauge singlet, with the same fermionic content as in the Standard Model. A horizontal Peccei-Quinn symmetry provides a solution to the strong CP problem and predicts the existence of a very light and weakly coupled pseudo-Goldstone boson, the invisible axion or familon. A phenomenological analysis is performed taking into account familon searches in rare kaon and muon decays, astrophysical considerations and axion searches via axion-photon conversion. Drastic differences are found in the axion properties of different models due to the strong hierarchy of the CKM matrix, making some of the models considered much more constrained than others. We also obtain that a rich variety of these models avoid the domain wall problem. A possible mechanism to protect the solution to the strong CP problem against gravitational effects is also discussed.