Difference equations for discrete classical multiple orthogonal polynomials

Abstract: For discrete multiple orthogonal polynomials such as the multiple Charlier polynomials, the multiple Meixner polynomials, and the multiple Hahn polynomials, we first find a lowering operator and then give a th order difference equation by combining the lowering operator with the raising operator. As a corollary, explicit third order difference equations for discrete multiple orthogonal polynomials are given, which was already proved by Van Assche for the multiple Charlier polynomials and the multiple Meixner polynomials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]