Quantum key distribution between two groups using secret sharing

In this paper, we investigate properties of some multi-particle entangled states and, from the properties applying the secret sharing present a new type of quantum key distribution protocols as generalization of quantum key distribution between two persons. In the protocols each group can retrieve the secure key string, only if all members in each group should cooperate with one another. We also show that the protocols are secure against an external eavesdropper using the intercept/resend strategy.