On the isomorphism problem for cyclic JSJ decompositions: vertex elimination

Abstract

We introduce two new moves on graphs of groups with cyclic edge groups that preserve the fundamental group. These moves allow us to address the isomorphism problem without the use of expansions, therefore keeping the number of vertices and edges constant along sequences of moves witnessing an isomorphism between two groups. We further show that the isomorphism problem for a large family of cyclic JSJ decompositions reduces to the case of generalized Baumslag-Solitar groups (GBS), and that among GBSs, it suffices to consider one-vertex graphs. As an application of the methods, we solve the isomorphism problem for a broad class of flexible GBSs. Finally, we discuss potential further applications of our techniques.