If a reaction releases energy in one direction, what must happen to the energy going the other direction

Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. people with sickle cell anemia were born with a defective gene that results in sickle-shaped red blood cells. individuals with the disease often suffer pain in their extremities due to the build-up of these cells causing blockages in the blood vessels. the shape of the blood cells also reduces the amount of oxygen transported in the blood.