  It is shown how to systematically construct the $XX$ quantum spin chains with
nearest-neighbor interactions that allow perfect state transfer (PST). Sets of
orthogonal polynomials (OPs) are in correspondence with such systems. The key
observation is that for any admissible one-excitation energy spectrum, the
weight function of the associated OPs is uniquely prescribed. This entails the
complete characterization of these PST models with the mirror symmetry property
arising as a corollary. A simple and efficient algorithm to obtain the
corresponding Hamiltonians is presented. A new model connected to a special
case of the symmetric $q$-Racah polynomials is offered. It is also explained
how additional models with PST can be derived from a parent system by removing
energy levels from the one-excitation spectrum of the latter. This is achieved
through Christoffel transformations and is also completely constructive in
regards to the Hamiltonians.
