Final answer:
Damage to the base sequence along a gene can result in an altered structure and function of the synthesized protein, as mutations can lead to changes in amino acid sequences of proteins, affecting their function.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the base sequence along a gene gets damaged, it might have an altered structure and function of the protein that is synthesized from this gene. This is because the sequence of bases in DNA determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein, and changes to the DNA sequence can lead to a change in the amino acids. Such a change is known as a mutation. One example of a detrimental effect caused by a mutation is sickle cell disease, where a single base change leads to the substitution of the amino acid valine for glutamic acid, affecting the hemoglobin protein's function. Moreover, if the protein is an enzyme, the mutation can prevent it from catalyzing necessary reactions, which could lead to a buildup of reactants or a shortage of essential products, as seen in conditions like galactosemia.