On the modular isomorphism problem for groups of class 3 and obelisks

Abstract We study the Modular Isomorphism Problem applying a combination of existing and new techniques. We make use of the small group algebra to give a positive answer for two classes of groups of nilpotency class 3. We also introduce a new approach to derive properties of the lower central series of a finite 𝑝-group from the structure of the associated modular group algebra. Finally, we study the class of so-called 𝑝-obelisks which are highlighted by recent computer-aided investigations of the problem.