Topological conformal algebra and BRST algebra in non-critical string theories

The operator algebra in non-critical string theories is studied by treating the cosmological term as a perturbation. The algebra of covariantly regularized BRST and related currents contains a twisted N = 2 superconformal algebra only at d = -2 in bosonic strings, and a twisted N = 3 superconformal algebra only at d = ±∞ in spinning strings. The bosonic string at d = -2 is examined by replacing the string coordinate by a fermionic matter with c = -2. The resulting bc-βγ system accommodates various forms of BRST cohomology, and the ghost number assignment and BRST cohomology are different in the c = -2 string theory and two-dimensional topological gravity.