Gamma-ray bursts and Population III stars
  Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are ideal probes of the epoch of the first stars and
galaxies. We review the recent theoretical understanding of the formation and
evolution of the first (so-called Population III) stars, in light of their
viability of providing GRB progenitors. We proceed to discuss possible unique
observational signatures of such bursts, based on the current formation
scenario of long GRBs. These include signatures related to the prompt emission
mechanism, as well as to the afterglow radiation, where the surrounding
intergalactic medium might imprint a telltale absorption spectrum. We emphasize
important remaining uncertainties in our emerging theoretical framework.
