Spin structure function $g_1(x,Q^2)$ and the DHGHY integral $I(Q^2)$ at low $Q^2$: predictions from the GVMD model

Theoretical predictions for polarized nucleon structure function $g_1(x,Q^2)$ at low $Q^2$ are obtained in the framework of the Generalized Vector Meson Dominance model. Contributions from both light and heavy vector mesons are evaluated. In the photoproduction limit the first moment of $g_1$ is related to the static properties of nucleon via the Drell-Hearn-Gerasimov-Hosoda-Yamamoto sum rule. This property is employed to fix the magnitude of the light vector meson contribution to $g_1$, using the recent measurements in the region of baryonic resonances. Results are compared to the data on $g_1(x,Q^2)$. Finally, the DHGHY moment function $I(Q^2)$ is calculated, and our theoretical predictions are confronted with the recent preliminary data obtained at the Jefferson Laboratory.