Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALNY) is markedly higher early following positive top-line results from its ongoing Phase I trial of ALN-TTRsc issued earlier on the session.

Deutsche Bank's Alethia Young noted today that ALN-TTRsc data, which showed an 80 percent knockdown of serum TTR protein levels over expectations, could be a "home run" in terms of effectiveness.

Though the trial is continuing in 40 healthy volunteers, Young expects about 35 percent to 60 percent of potential upside on strong Phase 1 subcutaneous data.

In familial amyloidotic cardiomyopathy, Young expects 30 percent chance of success. Peak sales are expected at $2.6 billion, with $5 billion in total for Alnylam should the company be successful across "key programs.

Shares are up over 13 percent in early trading Thursday.