Research at the New York university into the rare genetic condition known as hypertrichosis was featured in a U.S. documentary and followed a worldwide appeal to help an Indian boy who has the condition, The Daily Telegraph reported.

The appeal was made on behalf of Pruthviraj Patil, 11, who lives near Mumbai, the British newspaper said. His family tried different treatments -- including homeopathy, traditional Indian remedies and laser surgery -- but none proved successful.

The Columbia University scientists' research was filmed as part of the U.S. television documentary, "My Shocking Story: Real Wolf Kids." It followed the lives of several living India, including Pruthviraj, who have hypertrichosis.